Microfungi as cause of biodeterioration of cultural heritage

Fungi possess a high metabolic versatility, hence are able to colonize several organic and even inorganic surfaces causing irreversible changes in their appearance and intrinsic properties. For this reason they may be considered as the major biodeteriogens of material of commercial and artistic value. The present work offers an overview on the main fungal species, both hyphomycetes and the so-called black meristematic fungi, associated with biodeteriorated materials. The patterns of alteration caused by fungi and the methodology that can be used for the diagnosis and prevention of fungal colonization have also been discussed.