Molecular assessment of fungi in “black spots” that deface murals in the Takamatsuzuka and Kitora Tumuli in Japan: Acremonium sect. Gliomastix including Acremonium tumulicola sp. nov. and Acremonium felinum comb. nov

Researchers identified two new fungal species, Acremonium tumulicola and Acremonium felinum, as primary contributors to the biodeterioration of 1,300-year-old murals in Japan's UNESCO-listed Takamatsuzuka and Kitora Tumuli. Using molecular analysis—including ITS and 28S rDNA-D1/D2 sequencing—the study revealed that Acremonium masseei and A. murorum were the dominant species causing black spots on the murals, respectively. The findings highlight the role of specific fungi in cultural heritage degradation, offering insights for targeted conservation strategies.

Kiyuna, T., An, K.-D., Kigawa, R., Sano, C., Miura, S., & Sugiyama, J. (2011). Molecular assessment of fungi in “black spots” that deface murals in the Takamatsuzuka and Kitora Tumuli in Japan: Acremonium sect. Gliomastix including Acremonium tumulicola sp. nov. and Acremonium felinum comb. nov. Mycoscience, 52(1), 1–17. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10267-010-0063-6