Abstract: Clostridium butyricum is a typical hydrogen-producing fermentative bacterium, capable of utilizing various complex organic compounds for anaerobic fermentation. With strong environmental adaptability, it can survive and maintain metabolic activity in a range of extreme environments, and thus can act as an important producer of hydrogen (H₂) and organic acids. It plays a significant role in anaerobic digestion processes. Additionally, C. butyricum demonstrates antimicrobial properties by inhibiting the growth of various pathogenic bacteria and showing potential for medical and agricultural applications. We systematically reviewed the metabolic mechanisms of C. butyricum, the influencing factors and analyzed its role in elemental cycling. We also summarized its antimicrobial functions, elucidating its diverse roles and significant environmental implications in ecosystems. This review identified the knowledge gaps and outlined promising directions for future investigation. This study not only contributes to understanding the ecological role of C. butyricum but also provides a theoretical foundation for its application in environmental pollution remediation.

Key words: Clostridium butyricum, metabolism, elemental cycling, bacteriostasis