Contribution of culture-independent methods to cave aerobiology: The case of Lascaux Cave

A comprehensive inventory of fungi within the Altamira Cave, conducted between 2007 and 2009, revealed four primary groups based on their origin: plant saprotrophs introduced via airborne spores, entomopathogenic fungi brought in by arthropods, coprophilous fungi thriving on rodent feces, and soilborne fungi. This study highlights the diverse fungal populations posing potential threats to cave conservation, emphasizing the need for targeted control measures to mitigate outbreaks. The research utilized culture-independent methods to assess the aerobiology of the cave, providing critical insights into the ecological dynamics that could impact the preservation of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Martin-Sanchez, P., & Saiz-Jimenez, C. (2014). Contribution of culture-independent methods to cave aerobiology: The case of Lascaux Cave. The Conservation of Subterranean Cultural Heritage, 215–222. https://doi.org/10.1201/b17570-26