Biological pests. Insects constitute a serious group of fabric pests, that feed on the material, by chewing oblong holes or biting its edges High humidity is the most favorable for their development (60—70%) the temperature 20-30″C.
Among the insects that cause great damage to historic fabrics, the moth family should be mentioned (Tineidae) belonging to butterflies (Lapidoptera), numbering in Poland approx 40 species, among which the clothes moth is particularly harmful and frequent (Tieola biselliella Humm.), furry (Tinea pellionella L.) and wallpaper (Trichophage tapetzella). Next, the family of skinners should be mentioned (Dermestidae), belonging to beetles (Coleoptera), gathering many species of beetles pests of fabrics, fur and leather, among which the most common is the ivory dermest (Dermestes lardarius L.), and the ravenous family (Ptinidae), m.in. with bulging ravine and tannin ravine. The silverfish family should also be mentioned (Lepismatidae) belonging to the shepherds (Thysanura), m.in. silverfish.
Fabrics are also damaged by fungi and bacteria. Insects attack almost exclusively macromolecular proteins (proteins), found in fibers of animal origin, such as wool and natural silk. On the other hand, fungi and bacteria decompose primarily vegetable fibers, containing cellulose - cotton, len, hemp and jute.
Plant-based fabrics (cellulose) are destroyed by the action of microorganisms as a result of the decomposition of fiber. The presence of fungi is revealed by the appearance of colored spots. Lignin-degrading fungi include. to the Basidiomycetes spike. Next to them, the microflora that uses the finish as a source of food develops, dyes and various types of impurities present in fabrics.
On fabrics of animal origin, whose main component is keratin (scleroprotein group), mainly bacteria, less often mushrooms. Natural silk, whose basic component is fibroin (sulfur-free protein substance), it is usually not attacked by fungi. While, contrary to previous beliefs, artificial fibers (nylon, terylen itd.) are attacked by fungi.
