Biodeterioro causado por insectos en materiales y objetos de valor patrimonial

Abstract

In Argentina, the main insects that cause biodegradation in heritage objects are beetles (Anobiidae, Coleoptera). The most frequent species in texts are Tricorynus herbarius (Gorham) and Stegobium paniceum (L.) and in working woods are Anobium punctatum De Geer and Xyletinus brasiliensis Pic. The damage in texts corresponds to galleries in covers, spines and pages and circular holes in spines. In wood they also generate galleries that cause the weakening of the support. Silverfish (Zygentoma) and cockroaches (Blattodea) produce superficial scrapes on texts and faecal spots, and larvae of the clothing moth Tineola bisselliella Hummel (Lepidoptera) feed on bookbinding fabrics. The spider webs collaborate with the accumulation of dirt and the remains and feces of the aforementioned fauna represent a substrate for chemical contamination and the development of other biodeteriorant organisms. The specific identification, the knowledge about the biology and the detection of signs of the actions of these insects, constitute the previous step for the implementation of preventive and curative conservation measures with a view to stopping, minimizing or counteracting the deterioration, ensuring the protection of the materials. Illustrative practical examples of objects of heritage value from Argentina are presented.