Contributions of in situ microscopy to the current understanding of stone biodeterioration

Authors

  • Asunción de los Ríos Institute for Natural Resources, Environmental Sciences Center, CSIC, Madrid, Spain
  • Carmen Ascaso Institute for Natural Resources, Environmental Sciences Center, CSIC, Madrid, Spain

Keywords:

biodeterioration, in situ microscopy, biofilms, scanning electron microscopy in back-scattered mode, lithobionts

Abstract

In situ microscopy consists of simultaneously applying several microscopy techniques without separating the biological component from its habitat. Over the past few years, this strategy has allowed characterization of the biofilms involved in biodeterioration processes affecting stone monuments and has revealed the biogeophysical and biogeochemical impact of the microbiota present. In addition, through in situ microscopy diagnosis, appropriate treatments can be designed to resolve the problems related to microbial colonization of stone monuments. [Int Microbiol 2005; 8(3):181-188]

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Published

2010-02-26

Issue

Section

Research Reviews