Bacterial diversity on stained glass windows.

In order to explore the role of bacteria in the alteration of stained glass windows, and especially on the browning phenomenon, it is necessary to have an overview of the microbial inhabitants likely to be found on this kind of material. In this study, biological samples were collected on stained glass of different colours, both on site and stored in a conservation workshop. Cultivable bacterial communities were identified by 16S rDNA sequencing. Similarity values ranged from 99 to 100% to known bacteria. Sequence analysis showed different bacterial communities depending on the sampling site. The more represented genera were Arthrobacter, Micrococcus, Paenibacillus and Bacillus. Some of the identified bacteria are known for their weathering potential. • Microbiological samples were collected on stained glass from 4 French sites. • Bacterial diversity was observed depending on the sampling site. • Geographical, internal/external exposure, and glass composition might have an impact on bacterial diversity. • Some of the identified bacteria have weathering potential. • Arthrobacter crystallopoietes was associated to murrey glass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]