Characterization of cyanobacteria isolated from biofilms on stone monuments at Santiniketan, India

Cyanobacterial biofilms on stone monuments at Santiniketan, India, exhibit unique characteristics distinct from temperate regions. Dominated by Scytonema and Tolypothrix, these biofilms also harbor 14 genera upon prolonged culture. The organisms produce high levels of scytonemin, mycosporine-like amino acids, and carotenoids, enhancing their survival in desiccated states with rapid revival upon rehydration. Heterocystous cyanobacteria demonstrate nitrogenase activity reactivation within 24 hours post-wetting, highlighting their resilience and ecological adaptability in tropical environments.

Keshari, N., & Adhikary, S. P. (2013). Characterization of cyanobacteria isolated from biofilms on stone monuments at Santiniketan, India. Biofouling, 29(5), 525–536. https://doi.org/10.1080/08927014.2013.794224