Microbiome associated to an H2-emitting zone in the São Francisco basin Brazil.

Abstract

Background: Dihydrogen (H₂) natural gas is a clean and renewable energy source of significant interest in the transition to sustainable energy. Unlike conventional petroleum-based fuels, H₂ releases only water vapor upon combustion, making it a promising alternative for reducing carbon footprints in the future. However, the microbial impact on H₂ dynamics in H₂-emitting zones remains unclear, as does the origin of H₂ - whether it is produced at greater depths or within shallow soil layers. In the São Francisco Basin, soil hydrogen concentrations of approximately 200 ppm were identified in barren ground depressions. In this study, we investigated the microbiome associated with this area using the 16S rRNA gene sequencing, with a focus on metabolic processes related to H₂ consumption and production. Soil samples were collected from two monitored (< 1 m) depths - 10 cm and 1 m - in the emission zone, which is predominantly covered with pasture vegetation, and from an adjacent area with medium and small trees.

Results: Our findings suggest that the H₂-emitting zone significantly influences the composition and function of the microbiome, with Bacillus emerging as the dominant genus. In contrast to typical Cerrado soil, we observed a higher prevalence of Actinobacteriota (∼ 40%) and Firmicutes (∼ 20%). Additionally, we identified an abundance of sporulating bacteria and taxonomic groups previously described as H₂-oxidizing bacteria.

Conclusions: The H₂-emitting zone in the São Francisco Basin presents a unique opportunity to deepen our understanding of the impact of H₂ on microbial communities. This study is the first to characterize a natural H₂-associated bacterial community in Cerrado soil using a culture-independent approach.