New Life Found In Ancient Tombs [ Catacombs of Saint Callistus in Rome ]

ScienceDaily ^ | September 24, 2008 | Society for General Microbiology, via EurekAlert!

[SunkenCiv]

The two new species of bacteria found growing on the walls of the Roman tombs may help protect our cultural heritage monuments, according to research... The Catacombs of Saint Callistus are part of a massive graveyard that covers 15 hectares [37 acres], equivalent to more than 20 football pitches. The underground tombs were built at the end of the 2nd Century AD and were named after Pope Saint Callistus I. More than 30 popes and martyrs are buried in the catacombs. "Bacteria can grow on the walls of these underground tombs and often cause damage," said Professor Dr Clara Urzì from the University of Messina in Italy. "We found two new species of bacteria on decayed surfaces in the catacombs and we think the bacteria, which belong to the Kribbella group, may have been involved in the destruction." By studying bacteria that ruin monuments, the researchers hope to develop methods of protecting cultural heritage sites such as the catacombs in Rome. The two new bacterial species discovered in the tombs also have the potential to produce molecules that have useful properties, like enzymes and antibiotics.

[SunkenCiv]

[SunkenCiv]

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	Gods Graves Glyphs	Thanks gleeaikin. I had it in a file from last month, but had never posted it. To all -- please ping me to other topics which are appropriate for the GGG list. GGG managers are SunkenCiv, StayAt HomeMother, and Ernest_at_the_Beach
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[Krankor]

It’s probably just mold from a leaky roof.

[bigheadfred]

Wonder if this stuff is the same as the bacteria found in the Halls of Congress that are destroying the foundations of this Nation?

[Verginius Rufus]

New species of bacteria? Better determine if they are endangered and need protection.

[Swordmaker]

Wonder if this stuff is the same as the bacteria found in the Halls of Congress that are destroying the foundations of this Nation?

Bacillus Democratus?

[bigheadfred]

Bacillus Democratus

Thanks for the correction, I had it as Bullsh!+us Democrapus.

F@#$ing little monsters...