Effect of cathode types on long-term performance and anode bacterial communities in microbial fuel cells

► Cathode effect on MFC long-term stability and anode community is substantial. ► MFCs R1-3 with K3Fe(CN)6 catholyte, air cathode and biocathode were evaluated. ► Over time the Pmax and CE of R1 and R2 were all impaired, except for R3. ► The anode bacterial density in R3 biofilm was higher than in R1 and R2. ► Community structures of R1-3 were markedly different.