Assessment of microbiota present on a Portuguese historical stone convent using high‐throughput sequencing approaches

A complex microbial ecosystem was identified on the stone materials of the Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Portugal. High-throughput sequencing revealed that specific microorganisms, such as Rubrobacter sp., Arthrobacter sp., Roseomonas sp., and Marinobacter sp., contribute to colored stains and biofilm formation, while Ulocladium sp., Cladosporium sp., and Dirina sp. may cause structural damage. This study overcame the limitations of culture-dependent techniques by providing a comprehensive view of the microbiota, highlighting the importance of metagenomic studies for understanding biodeterioration processes on historical stone structures. The findings suggest potential long-term mitigation strategies to prevent biodegradation.

Rosado, T., Dias, L., Lança, M., Nogueira, C., Santos, R., Martins, M. R., Candeias, A., Mirão, J., & Caldeira, A. T. (2020). Assessment of microbiota present on a Portuguese historical stone convent using high‐throughput sequencing approaches. MicrobiologyOpen, 9(6), 1067–1084. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1002/mbo3.1030