Actinomycetes and Biodeterioration in the Field of Fine Art

Abstract

Examines the problems concerning the Actinomycetes biodeteriogens on frescoes of underground environments. This illustrates: 1) the serious damage suffered by a complete series of famous frescoes; 2) the techniques of nondestructive sampling; and 3) the media used for isolating both on site and in the laboratory. Presents two new aspects: the study of the relation between the microclimate of the environment where the frescoes are situated and the humidity required by Actinomycetes. This has highlighted the close correlation between thermohygrometric values necessary for the development of Actynomycetes and the actual values. The isolated strains are classified for the first time, as those which attack mural paintings. They are Streptomyces rectus flexibilis, S. griseoulus, S. cinereoruber, S. vinaceus, S. albus and Nocardia sp.