The bacterial diversity in the Mogao Grottoes, Dunhuang, China

Abstract:

[Objective] Analyzing the bacterial diversity, physiological and biochemical characteristics in the mogao grottoes can provide an experimental basis for microbial disease prevention and treatment of Mogao murals. [Methods] Both the air and mural samples collected from Mogao Grottoes 245# are analyzed by means of pure culture techniques, and testing effect of mural paint on bacterial growth. [Results] 76 bacteria belonging to eight different genera are identified and characterized. Six genera are revived form the air, they are Bacillus, Arthrobacter, Pseudomonas, Acinetobacter, Enterobacter, Kocuria, Among them, Bacillus and Arthrobacter are dominant. Four genera are revived from the mural, they are Bacillus, Arthrobacter, Paenibacillus, Erythrobacter, among them, Bacillus and Arthrobacter are dominant; and it is found that some bacteria, such as DHXJ05 (Enterobacteriaceae), DHXJ08 (Bacillaceae), DHXJ15 (Erythrobacteraceae), DHXJ16 (Bacillaceae) and DHXJ17 (Bacillaceae) can grow well in environment containing red ferric oxide, red lead, and cinnabar. [Conclusion] This experiment provide the conditions for discolorment mechanism and choosing corresponding bacterial preparation.