A metabarcoding approach for the study of biodeterioration of ancient wall paintings in an Italian cave

Caves represent unique habitats for the development of microbial communities due to particular environmental conditions. Mural paintings occurring in caves suffer from degradation caused by natural processes in which microorganisms are significantly involved. The characterization of the microbial biofilm with non-destructive analysis is important to better preserve and safeguard these artifacts. This study aimed at investigating the microbial communities colonising the frescoes in the Fornelle cave (Calvi Risorta, Caserta, Italy) using a metabarcoding approach. We found a high representation of eubacteria, followed by cyanobacteria, fungi, and microalgae. This study confirmed the potential of non-invasive techniques as DNA metabarcoding as powerful tool for conservation and restoration of artworks.