Long-term monitoring of the hypogeal Etruscan Tomba degli Scudi, Tarquinia, Italy. Early detection of black spots, investigation of fungal community, and evaluation of their biodeterioration potential

Matilde Kratter ¹, Marzia Beccaccioli ², Ylenia Vassallo ²

⁰Department of Biology and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome 00185, Italy.

Journal of Applied Microbiology +

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October 9, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

Black spots on ancient Etruscan tomb paintings were caused by common subterranean fungi. Continuous monitoring helps detect and assess damage early, demonstrating effective conservation strategies for valuable cultural heritage sites.

Area Of Science

Microbiology
Art Conservation
Heritage Science

Background

Hypogeal environments, such as the Etruscan Necropolis of Tarquinia, present significant conservation challenges due to their cultural heritage value.
The Tomba degli Scudi contains unique mural paintings requiring careful preservation efforts.
Recent observation of black spots on pictorial layers necessitated an investigation into their origin.

Purpose Of The Study

To identify the fungal species responsible for black spot expansion in the Tomba degli Scudi.
To assess the potential threat posed by these fungal strains to the mural paintings.
To evaluate the effectiveness of ongoing monitoring and conservation strategies.

Main Methods

Fungal communities were sampled from affected areas using cellulose discs, swabs, and nylon membranes.
A multi-analytical approach was employed to identify the fungal strains.
Continuous microbiological surveys have been conducted since 2016.

Main Results

Identified fungal strains, including Gliomastix murorum and Pseudogymnoascus pannorum, were found to be the cause of the black spots.
These fungal species are common in subterranean environments globally, similar to those found in Lascaux cave.
The study confirmed the presence of specific fungal agents contributing to the deterioration of the paintings.

Conclusions

Long-term monitoring enabled early detection of alterations and assessment of fungal strain harmfulness.
Preventative and monitoring actions are crucial for preserving fragile and valuable subterranean heritage sites.
The findings underscore the importance of proactive conservation in managing biological threats to cultural heritage.

Keywords:

Gliomastix murorum Etruscan tombs biocides biomineralization cultural heritage conservation environmental microbiology geomicrobiology hypogeal environment wall paintings biodeterioration