Colonization strategies of lithobiontic microorganisms on carbonate rocks

Biogenic weathering is caused by the action of lithobiontic organisms. Homogeneous carbonates are predominantly colonized by endolithic species that actively penetrate the rock substratum independent of already existing pores or fissures. The organisms construct a system of ducts and cavities by active dissolution of the substratum. A fresh, noncolonized surface is penetrated by algae and ascomycetes in the first and second year after exposure to the environment. The establishment of complex colonization patterns on and in the substratum by lichens takes several years. In spite of the primary deteriorative effect on their substratum by the organisms, long-term endolithic growth also involves mechanisms that stabilize and preserve the rock surface morphology. A tightly woven cellular network may strengthen the colonized stone. This feature is of importance when natural and building stone are affected by biogenic weathering phenomena.