Biogenous Fouling in Shulgan-Tash Cave (Kapova, Southern Urals) and Factors Influencing on Their Expansion

Biogenous fouling in Shulgan-Tash Cave, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Southern Urals, is expanding due to microclimate conditions and human activity. The study identifies key factors such as temperature, humidity, and visitor presence that accelerate the growth of microorganisms like algae, fungi, and bacteria on rock surfaces, threatening the integrity of ancient rock paintings. Researchers analyzed environmental data and fouling samples, revealing that higher temperatures (15–20°C) and relative humidity (70–90%) promote microbial colonization. The findings underscore the need for conservation measures to mitigate biological degradation in this culturally significant site.

Kuzmina, L. Y., Galimzyanova, N. F., Chervyatsova, O. Ya., Sailfullina, N. M., Kapralov, S. A., Ryabova, A. S.,. (2019). BIOGENOUS FOULING IN SHULGAN-TASH CAVE (KAPOVA, SOUTHERN URALS) AND FACTORS INFLUENCING ON THEIR EXPANSION. Èkobioteh, 2(2), 128–142. https://doi.org/10.31163/2618-964x-2019-2-2-128-142