Complex microbiota of a Chinese “Fen” liquor fermentation starter (Fen-Daqu), revealed by culture-dependent and culture-independent methods

► Daqu is a Chinese traditional fermentation starter for alcoholic fermentation. ► We examine its microbiota by culture-dependent and culture-independent approaches. ► The combined approaches revealed more species than either single one. ► Major microbiota included bacteria, yeasts and filamentous fungi. ► The abundance of Bacillus licheniformis distinguishes Daqu from other Asian wine starters.