Bacterial diversity associated to saline efflorescences on the walls of a French decorated prehistoric cave

Many subterranean environments presenting work-arts, such as paintings and engravings, suffer from deterioration processes. Understanding the biotic and abiotic part of these processes is essential to find sustainable restoration solutions. The aim of this study was to analyze the bacterial diversity associated with-, and the mineral structure and origin of-, saline efflorescences which threaten the engravings of a French prehistoric cave registered as Historical Monument and World Cultural Heritage: the Sorcerer’s cave (Dordogne, France).