Algicidal bacteria as an eco-friendly mitigation of microalgae: an application paradigm shift to heritage conservation

Abstract

Microalgae, including Cyanobacteria, have been shown to be pioneers among microbial colonizers at many archaeological sites, particularly on outdoor stone monuments. Being predominant pollutants, microalgae cause significant deterioration of historic buildings and materials, together with other colonizers. This perspective comprehensively explores the resources of algicidal bacteria, revisits their algicidal mechanisms as an eco-friendly mitigation against harmful microalgae, and proposes a paradigm shift in heritage conservation to address microalgal impacts.