Investigation of the black rock inhabiting fungi of the tomb of Cyrus the Great

Black fungi are considered as one of the original inhabitants of arid and semi-arid areas because of high ability to tolerate extreme environments. During the growth procedures, they alter the bedrocks. The present study was carried out to investigate the impacts of black rock inhabiting fungi on the tomb of Cyrus the Great bedrock. A preliminary monitoring of the tomb indicated to the presence of black fungi. Different samples of the tomb and Sivand quarry were prepared for qualitative and quantitative evaluations. The samples were evaluated with thin section preparations and Periodic Acid Schiff staining (PAS) and the results were analyzed by ImageJ software. Scanning electron microscopy technique (SEM) was used to confirm the results. The results show deep penetration of fungal hyphae into the bedrock and physico-chemical alteration of the substrate. According to the results, it seems that these microorganisms should be considered during the implementation of conservation and restoration programs.