Study of Microbial Diversity and their Role in the Deterioration of Tarkeshwar Temple, Jaipur, India

Tarkeshwar Temple is an ancient temple of Lord Shiva in Jaipur, built-in 1784 A.D. Temple is mainly composed of limestone, sand powder and marble. In this article, we discussed microbial diversity and deterioration of the temple surface. In this study, a total of 135 bacterial and 125 fungal colonies were identified among them Escherichia coli and, Aspergillus flavus most abundant one. Importance value index (IVI) of bacterial species revealed that the Escherichia coli show maximum IVI value (88.77%) followed by Pseudomonas aeruginosa (77%), Staphylococcus aureus (75.55%) and Staphylococcus haemolyticus (58.64%) shows least IVI value; and for fungal species, Importance value index (IVI) disclose that Aspergillus flavus shows maximum IVI value (84.3%) followed by Fusarium solani (68.38%), Aspergillus niger (56.98%), Aspergillus tubingensis (46.27%) and Aspergillus fumigation (35.5%) shows least IVI value. The degenerative potential of isolated bacteria and fungi with the help of FE-SEM was also analysed. This study helps to find the culturable biodeteriogens mainly bacteria and fungi which excreted most of the enzymes, acids and pigments to deteriorate the site and appearance. This study also helps to plan a strategy to maintain this heritage site and for providing a healthy environment for people who come to visit for prayers and admire the beauty of the ancient temple.