Characterization of the Community of Black Meristematic Fungi Inhabiting the External White Marble of the Florence Cathedral.

ABSTRACT: Meristematic black fungi are a highly damaging group of microorganisms responsible for the deterioration of outdoor exposed monuments. Their resilience to various stresses poses significant challenges for removal efforts. This study focuses on the community of meristematic fungi inhabiting the external white marble of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, where they contribute to its darkening. Twenty-four strains were isolated from two differently exposed sites of the Cathedral, and their characterization was conducted. Phylogenetic analysis using ITS and LSU rDNA regions revealed a wide diversity of rock-inhabiting fungal strains within the sampled areas. Eight strains, belonging to different genera, were also tested for thermal preferences, salt tolerance, and acid production to inves

SUBMITTER: Berti L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10301995 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature