A versatile and robust aerotolerant microbial community capable of cellulosic ethanol production

► A cellulolytic aerotolerant microbial community was enriched from compost. ► Cellulolytic activity was observed in non-reduced as well as pre-reduced media. ► Ethanol and acetate were major fermentation products. ► Cellulolytic activity continued when sterile wastewater was provided as nutrient. ► The culture consisted of both facultative anaerobic and anaerobic members.