Impact of endolithic biofilms on carbonate rock surfaces

Abstract

Abstract Almost all natural carbonate rock surfaces as well as carbonate building stones are ubiquitously colonized by micro-organisms such as cyanobacteria, chlorophyceae, fungi and lichens. This colonization occurs endolithically, mostly euendolithically, through active penetration into the rock. Freshly exposed surfaces, such as in glacial forelands of the Dachstein Mountains (Austria) show mature, fully differentiated endolithic colonization after only 15 years of atmospheric exposure. After a time period of 100 to 150 years, coverage of carbonate rock surfaces by endolithic biofilms is almost complete. Most endolithic biofilms (lichens) show similar internal architecture. Under a residual, protective carbonate rock layer are photobiontic micro-organisms. They occupay a well defined zone between 150 to 300 μm beneath the rock surface. In this zone up to 60% of the rock substrate is replaced by microbial biomass. Within the photobiontic layer a constant recycling of cells takes place, where bacteria act as decomposers. Deeper beneath the substrate develops an initially dense, then progressively thinning hyphal network of the mycobiont (i.e. a fungus). Significant differences in amounts and distribution of biomass were observed and quantified which are regional and climatic, but also local and surface age-controlled. Temperature, irradiation and water availability are presumed to be the primary factors. Evidence for a biogenic mechanical surface destabilization (grain loss, desquamation, exfoliation) as observed on siliciclastic rocks, was not found on natural carbonate rock surfaces. The ‘life strategy’ of endolithic biofilms is adapted to conserve their substrates. It commences with quick emplacement within the rock, initially causing some material loss. However, as soon as the endolithic biofilm is established, approaching an equilibrium with the climatic and ecological conditions, it behaves essentially conservatively: it does not continue with growth increments or habitat enlargement. This adaptation of euendolithic biofilms has a generally more protective than destructive impact on their carbonate rock substrates. These observations are important for a better understanding of weathering and deterioration processes, applicable to protection policies and maintenance of cultural monuments.