Phototrophic Colonization in Dolomitic Limestone: Comparison between Single <i>vs</i> Artificial Multispecies

Phototrophic organisms, such as microalgae and cyanobacteria, are known to be major contributors stone decay. The purpose of this study was assess the dolomitic limestone colonization by phototrophic using single vs artificial multispecies, under laboratory conditions. To achieve aim, blocks were inoculated with species previously collected from Old Cathedral Coimbra, for a period three months. In parallel, also mixture same isolated species, in order compare capacities both Results evaluated based on visual inspection, surface covered area, colorimetric SEM analyses. showed that organisms able colonize conditions (single multispecies), but biofilm development more enhanced when rather than used. obtained results allowed observe capacity endolithic formation small cavities some species.