Echoes of 1816: microbial footprints in heritage artifacts from Argentina’s museum of independence

TL;DR

This study explores the microbial communities on historical artifacts in Argentina’s Museum of Independence, revealing how different materials attract specific bacteria.

Contribution

The paper provides the first comprehensive microbiological analysis of heritage artifacts in Latin America’s museums.

Findings

SEM imaging showed complex biofilms on artifacts, with 49 bacterial strains isolated, including extremophiles.

The 19th-century albumen photograph hosted the most diverse microbial community, including Pseudomonas species.

Human-associated bacteria were found in high-contact zones, while exterior surfaces had unique microbial profiles.

Abstract

Historical artifacts preserved in museums are invaluable cultural treasures but are often susceptible to biodeterioration driven by microbial colonization. Despite increasing awareness of microbial impacts on heritage conservation, systematic microbiological studies of such objects remain limited, particularly in Latin America.

This study presents the first comprehensive investigation of bacteria inhabiting heritage artifacts from Casa Histórica de la Independencia, Argentina’s Museum of Independence. Samples were collected from a range of materials, including wood, textiles, architectural elements, and exterior walls. Microbial colonization was assessed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and bacterial isolates were phenotypically and taxonomically characterized via VITEK MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry. Selected isolates were further subjected to genomic analysis.

SEM imaging revealed diverse and well-structured biofilms with intricate three-dimensional architectures embedded in extracellular polymeric substances. A total of 49 bacterial strains were isolated, predominantly Gram-positive genera such as Bacillus, Micrococcus, and Kocuria. The 19th-century albumen print photograph emerged as the most biodiverse artifact, yielding 21 distinct strains, including extremophilic genera such as Streptomyces, Oceanobacillus, and Caldibacillus thermoamylovorans. The albumen layer’s protein-rich and halophilic properties likely promoted microbial colonization. Notably, Pseudomonas species were found exclusively on this photographic material. Human-associated taxa, such as Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus equorum, were primarily detected in high-contact zones, while exterior surfaces exhibited unique microbial profiles, including opportunistic pathogens.

The findings highlight a complex and substrate-specific microbial landscape across the museum’s collection. The presence of halophiles and human-associated bacteria points to both intrinsic material properties and external contamination sources. This study shows the importance of incorporating microbiological data into conservation protocols. By characterizing the artifact-associated microbiota, we contribute to the emerging field of heritage microbiology and future bio-informed preservation strategies.

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