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Isolation of five Rubrobacter strains from biodeteriorated monuments
1Instituto de Recursos Naturales y Agrobiologia, CSIC, Apartado 1052, 41080, Seville, Spain.
Die Naturwissenschaften
|October 28, 2008
Summary
Microbiologists discovered five Rubrobacter strains in ancient Spanish and Portuguese monuments, potentially representing new species. These bacteria cause biodeterioration and can influence crystal formation.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Conservation Science
- Geomicrobiology
Background:
- Microbial colonization of ancient monuments is a growing concern for conservators and microbiologists.
- The genus Rubrobacter is known to cause rosy discoloration on historical artworks.
- Previously, only thermophilic Rubrobacter species had been isolated.
Observation:
- Three historical sites (Servilia and Postumio tombs, Vilar de Frades church) exhibiting biodeterioration and efflorescences were investigated.
- Five Rubrobacter strains were successfully isolated from these diverse monument environments.
- Isolates displayed varied physiological characteristics and migration patterns, suggesting novel species.
Findings:
- The isolated Rubrobacter strains replicated biodeterioration processes under laboratory conditions.
- These strains demonstrated capabilities in mediating crystal formation.
- Genetic analysis indicated potential for new species within the Rubrobacter genus.
Implications:
- This research expands the known ecological niche of Rubrobacter to non-thermophilic environments.
- Understanding these isolates' role in biodeterioration and crystal formation aids in developing targeted conservation strategies.
- The findings contribute to the broader knowledge of microbial interactions with cultural heritage materials.
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