PIERVITTORI, ROSANNA. Dipartimento di Biologia Vegetale, Università di Torino, viale Mattioli 25, 10125 Turin, Italy. - Lichens and biodeterioration of stoneworks: the Italian experience.
Lichens play an important role as biogeophysical and biogeochemical
agents in the degradation of stone surfaces. Problems comes out where
lichen-substratum relationships occured on stoneworks of artistic
value. In this case the process of alteration and disintegration of
rocks is of primary interest because sometimes it can create serious
problems for their recovery, restoration and conservation. This work
presents an up to date review of the researches conducted till now in
Italy specifically devoted to lichens and biodeterioration of
stonework in archeological and monumental areas. This survey shows the
main methodologies used in this field: systematic and ecological
studies, lichen-substratum interface quali-quantitative analyses,
chemical and physical mechanisms of deterioration by lichens, calcium
oxalate films, prevention and control methods. Finally the lichens are
investigated as a possible air-dispersed component. Sampling methods
for the quantitative assessment of the presence of airborne lichen
structure (i.e. spores, lichenized propagules) in areas of artistic
and archeological interest are proposed.
Key words: biodeterioration, Italy, lichens, review