Microbial Community Analysis and Environmental Association in Cave 6 of the Yungang Grottoes

A high-throughput sequencing analysis of microbial communities within Cave 6 of the Yungang Grottoes revealed significant microenvironment-specific diversity and functional risks. The study identified Ascomycota-dominated fungi and Proteobacteria-rich bacteria, with the highest diversity near areas of external interaction—such as lighting windows—and the lowest in red pigment zones, likely under heavy metal stress. Human-associated microbes (e.g., Escherichia-Shigella, Malassezia) indicated anthropogenic pollution on statue surfaces. Functional predictions (PICRUSt2) highlighted elevated biodegradation risks in dust accumulation and inter-statue areas, enriched with organic-degrading and acid-producing taxa like Rubrobacter and Cladosporium. Microbial distribution was strongly influenced by environmental openness, substrate type, and human impact, offering critical insights for targeted conservation strategies.

Qiao, S., Wang, Z., Zhang, R., Wang, Y., Wang, C., Gao, G., & Pan, J. (2025). Microbial Community Analysis and Environmental Association in Cave 6 of the Yungang Grottoes. Microorganisms, 13(12), 2788. https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms13122788