ABSTRACT

This chapter identifies the microorganisms growing in biofilm communities on Maya limestone materials that play a role in deterioration through production of dissolution causing metabolites. Many of the world’s important cultural heritage structures are composed of carbonate minerals, especially limestone, including Maya archaeological sites. These sites have important historical significance and are irreplaceable. Molecular methods are useful for creating a complete profile of the bacterial community. It is important to relate that profile to microbial function. The chapter analyzes the relationship between the dissolution activity of specific biofilm bacteria and their taxonomy. Bacteria living on and near the surfaces of minerals cause material dissolution through production of metabolic by-products, including acids, polysaccharides, and siderophores. The effect of microbial exopolymers on the dissolution of calcium carbonate is important in determination of the role of microorganims in the mineral’s deterioration. The chapter utilizes Atomic force microscopy to investigate the effects of microbially produced exopolymers on carbonate dissolution.