Microorganisms in Superficial Deposits on the Stone Monuments in Saint Petersburg

Abstract

The composition of superficial deposits in urban environment and their importance in the development of the lithobiotic community of microorganisms has been investigated. Polyols, organic acids, mono- and disaccharides, as well as some amino acids, are the predominant low molecular weight organic components in superficial deposits, although the conditions on the stone surface are undoubtedly oligotrophic. Superficial deposits accumulate heavy metals, including Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, Pb, and Cd, in surface sediments, among which the potentially toxic elements Zn, Cu, and Pb are accumulated in rather high concentrations. On model of Aspergillus niger as an example, it was shown micromycetes are resistant to heavy metals and retain their physiological activity when grown on this substrate. According to cultural studies, as well as metagenomic analysis, stress-resistant fungi and dark organotrophic bacteria are the main inhabitants of surface sediments. Probably, in the conditions of accumulation of superficial deposits on the stone, these organisms are the main inhabitants of the surface of the stone. With the development of more multi-species lithobiotic communities, they form the core of these communities. In the urban environment this type of primary colonization of the stone is likely realized.

Keywords

• superficial deposits
• dark-colored fungi
• organotrophic bacteria
• cultural heritage
• heavy metals