Introduction
Because of the unique characteristics of cyanobacteria, such
as involvement in oxygenic photosynthesis, fixation of atmospheric
molecular nitrogen, and considerable resistance
to unfavourable factors, they are able to colonise different
ecological niches, including extreme environments (Rozanov,
2002). Numerous studies and reviews have been devoted to
the fouling of monuments and historical buildings by epiand
endolithic microorganisms, as well as to the development
of methods to prevent biodeterioration of stone (Tomaselli
et al., 2000; Crispim et al., 2003; Scheerer et al., 2009).