Acremonium 
Phonetic:  Ack-ruh-moan’-ee-um
Acremonium (a.k.a. Cephalosporium) is a common type I & III allergen. Naturally found in soils, decaying organic matter, and plant debris, it is also an agricultural contaminant. This genus can be parasitic or saprophytic to plants and other living fungi, and some species cause vascular wilts in trees. Acremonium is the asexual state of Emericellopsis, Chaetomium, and Nectripsis. It has been known to produce a toxin from the trichothecene group and may also give off an unpleasant odour due to the production of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). This fungus is associated with occupant complaints such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Acremonium has been isolated from cases of mycetoma, onychomycosis, mycotic keratitis, infection of the cornea, and infections of artificial implants. Morphological characteristics are the production of conidiophores and long, slender phialides; conidia are hyaline, 1-celled, and are collected in a slime drop. Colonies grow fast and are compact and moist, becoming overgrown with loose, cottony hyphae which are white, gray or rose in color. Indoor growth requires extremely wet conditions, and does not grow very well at 37°C. Culture - Potato dextrose agar or Malt extract agar, 20° - 25°C, 7 – 10 days.

Alternaria
Phonetic:  All-tur-nair’-ee-uh
Alternaria is a large and widespread genus, the conidia of which are easily carried by the wind, with peak concentrations in the summer and early fall. Alternaria is commonly found in house dust, carpets, textiles, on horizontal surfaces in building interiors, and window frames. It is one of the main fungal causes of allergy, being a common type I & III allergen. Outdoors, it may be isolated from samples of soil, seeds and plants, and is frequently reported in air. The large spore size suggests that this fungus will deposit in the nose, mouth and upper respiratory tract causing nasal septum infections. It has also been associated with hypersensitivity pneumonitis. It is a common cause of extrinsic asthma. Acute symptoms include edema and bronchiospasms; chronic cases may develop pulmonary emphysema. Baker’s asthma is associated with inhalation of Alternaria conidia present in flour. Other diseases caused by Alternaria include: Farmer’s lung, mycotic keratitis, skin infections, and osteomyelitis. Also, the species A. alternata is capable of producing tenuazonic acid and other toxic metabolites that may be associated with disease in humans or animals. Several species are pathogenic to plants and contribute to the spoilage of agricultural products. Alternaria has been isolated from substrates such as sewage, leather, stone monuments, optical instruments, cosmetics, computer disks, and jet fuel. Morphological characteristics include abundant production of conidia that are large (18-83 x 7-18 microns) and multicellular with both transverse and longitudinal septa; conidiophores are dark, mostly simple. Colonies grow fast, are suede-like to floccose, and black to olivaceous-black or grayish in color. (Aw–0.85-0.89) Culture - Potato dextrose agar or Malt extract agar, 20° - 25°C, 7 – 10 days.

Arthrinium 
Phonetic:  Arth-rin-ee-um
Arthrinium is a widespread saprobe. It is found on plants including sugarcane and especially swamp grasses & sedges. This genus is often isolated from air near grassy places in the autumn. Only one species is considered to be allergenic. There have been no reported cases of infections or toxin related diseases in humans or animals. Conidiophores are simple, mostly hyaline except for thick dark septa. Conidia are dark, 1-celled, broadly fusoid, ovoid with an equatorial germ slit, and are attached on the side and apex of conidiophore. They usually occur in grape-like masses on white wooly colonies. Culture - Potato dextrose agar or Malt extract agar, 20° - 25°C, 7 – 10 days.

Ascospore
Phonetic: Ask-oh-spore
Ascospores are a general category of spores that have been produced by means of sexual reproduction (in a sack-like structure called an ascus). These are ubiquitous saprobes and plant pathogens, many of which are easily identifiable (i.e. Chaetomium). This group contains potential opportunistic pathogens, toxin producers, and allergens depending on the genus and species. A rupture in the top portion of the ascus disperses the spores during rain or in times of high humidity. Some asexual fungi, such as Aspergillus and Penicillium can become sexual under specific conditions, these are then considered ascomycetes and are given distinct names.

Aspergillus/Penicillium 
Phonetic:  Ass-purr-jill-us/Pen-uh-sill'-ee-um
Aspergillus and Penicillium spores are indistinguishable via direct microscopic examination. Aspergillus tends to colonize continuously damp materials such as damp wallboard and fabrics. Penicillium is commonly found in house dust, on water-damaged wallpaper, behind paint and in decaying fabrics.

Aspergillus fumigatus
This species may be recovered from the indoor environment. It has worldwide distribution and grows over a wide range of temperatures. It has been recovered from soils, plants, seeds, sludge, wood chips, compost, cotton, and penguin excreta. It is commonly found outdoors in compost piles with temperatures higher than 40 degrees C, in mild to warm soils and on cereals. This fungus has an Aw (water activity) of 0.82 with an optimum> 0.97. Conidia (spores) have dimensions of 2-3.5 microns. This fungus should be considered allergenic, however; it should be considered as a principle cause for both invasive and allergic aspergillosis. These organisms will particularly affect individuals who are immune compromised. It is considered a true human pathogen. No toxic diseases have been documented to date.

Aspergillus niger
This species is considered common to indoor environments. It is widespread in the soil and on plants and is also considered a common contaminant of foods. It has a musty odour. It is commonly found in the environment on textiles, in soils, grains, fruits and vegetables isolated from tropical and subtropical soils but less frequently from other areas. This fungus has an Aw (water activity) of 0.77 with an optimum> 0.97 . Conidia (spores) have dimensions of 3.5­5 microns or 4 to 5 microns. It is reported to be allergenic. It is common in secondary organisms following bacterial otitis and is more commonly being implicated in pulmonary disease in immunocompromised hosts. It has also been reported to cause skin infections. .

Aspergillus ustus
This species is not considered common in habitats other than tropical or subtropical soils. This fungus should be considered allergenic. This species is only occasionally pathogenic and has been associated with otitis media, burns, and disseminated infections. No toxic diseases have been documented to date.

Aspergillus versicolor
Phonetic: Ass-purr-jill-us ver-see-color
Aspergillus versicolor can be found mostly in temperate areas in air, house dust, foods, soils, hay, cotton, and dairy products. Its presence in indoor air often indicates signs of moisture problems in buildings, as it is readily found in water damaged building materials. This species produces the mycotoxin sterigmatocystin, which is reported to be carcinogenic to the liver and kidney, and it can cause such symptoms as diarrhea and upset stomach. It also produces the volatile organic compound (VOC) geosmin, this compound causes irritation of the mucus membranes of humans and pets; also causing the characteristic musty, earthy odour often connected with mouldy houses. A. versicolor may be in various colors, as the name implies, and is very common and displays great variety in colony pattern and size. (Aw-0.78) Culture - Potato dextrose agar or Malt extract agar, 20° - 25°C.

Aspergillus 
Phonetic:  Ass-purr-jill-us
Aspergillus is a common type I & III allergen. They are frequently isolated from forest products, soils, grains, nuts, cotton, organic debris, and water damaged building materials. Spores can also be found in moist ventilation systems and house dust. There are more than 160 different species of Aspergillus, sixteen of which have been documented as etiological agents of human disease but rarely occur in individuals with normally functioning immune systems. However, due to the substantial increase in populations of individuals with HIV, chemotherapy patients and those on corticosteroid treatment, contamination of building substrates with fungi, particularly Aspergillus is of concern. Aspergillosis is now the second most common fungal infection requiring hospitalization in the United States. Many Aspergillus species produce mycotoxins that may be associated with diseases in humans and other animals. Toxin production is dependent on the species or strain within the species and on the food source for the fungus. Some of these toxins are carcinogenic including aflatoxins and ochratoxin. Aspergillus is a common cause of extrinsic asthma with symptoms including edema and bronchiospasms, and chronic cases may develop pulmonary emphysema. These fungi are frequently secondary opportunistic pathogens in patients with bronchiectasis, carcinoma, other mycosis, sarcoid, and tuberculosis. Some species can also cause onychomycosis (infection of the nail). (Aw – 0.71 – 0.94). Culture - Potato dextrose agar or Malt extract agar, 20° - 25°C, 7 – 10 days. Speciation of Aspergillus requires the culture of the fungus under different conditions of media, humidity, and temperature.

Penicillium
Phonetic:  Pen-uh-sill’-ee-um
A large number of organisms belong to this genus, and identification to species is difficult. Often found in aerosol samples, it is common in soil, food, cellulose, paint, grains, and compost piles. In the indoor environment it is in carpet, wallpaper, and in interior fiberglass duct insulation. Although this fungus causes fewer allergies than other moulds, Penicillium is reported to be a type I & III allergen. It may cause hypersensitivity pneumonitis and allergic alveolitis in susceptible individuals. It can cause other infections such as keratitis, penicilliosis, and otomycosis. Some species can produce mycotoxins including Ochratoxin, which is damaging to the kidneys and liver and is also a suspected carcinogen; there is also evidence that impairs the immune system. It also produces Citrinin that can cause renal damage, vasodilatation, and bronchial constriction and Gliotoxin, which is immunosuppressive. Patulin is another of its mycotoxins that is believed to cause hemorrhaging in the brain and lungs and is usually associated with apple and grape spoilage. It can also cause extrinsic asthma. P. camemberti has been responsible for inducing occupational allergies among those who work with soft white cheeses on which the fungus grows (cheese washer’s lung). P. marneffei is the major pathogenic species causing infections of the lymphatic system, lungs, liver, skin, spleen, and bone, and is also the only species of the genus to have a yeast-like phase induced by temperature. Penicillium sp. are recognized by their dense brush-like spore-bearing structures. (Aw -0.78-0.86). Culture - Potato dextrose agar or Malt extract agar, 20° – 25°C, 7 – 10 days.

Basidiospore
Phonetic:  Buh-cyd-ee-oh-spore
Basidiospores are a general category of sexual spores that have been released from the basidium of a fungus. A ubiquitous type I & III allergen, saprobe and plant pathogen, mainly found in gardens, forests, and woodlands. Spores disseminate during rain or in times of high humidity. Rarely opportunistic pathogens, Basidiospores may produce toxins, including amanitins, monomethyl-hydrazine, muscarine, ibotenic acid, and psilocybin. Basidiospores are an agent of dry wood rot, which may destroy the structure wood of buildings.

Bipolaris
Phonetic: By-pole-air’-us
Bipolaris is a plant parasite mostly on subtropical and tropical plants, particularly to Graminae. Some species are pathogenic to grasses and animals such as the dog, and may cause nasal mycotic granuloma in cattle. This fungus can grow in semi-dry environments. Bipolaris is commonly found in dead or dying plant debris, soils, and grasses. It has been reported to produce the mycotoxin, sterigmatocystin that has been shown to cause liver and kidney damage when ingested by laboratory animals. This fungus is associated with phaeohyphomycosis, a disease consisting of a group of mycotic infections characterized by the presence of demataceous septate hyphae. Infections of the eyes and skin by black fungi could also be classified as phaeohyphomycosis. This fungus causes allergic fungal sinusitis, characterized by the presence of Bipolaris in the sinuses. In certain people with severe allergies, the large spores of this fungus can travel to the sinuses or upper respiratory tract, where they attach to the mucus and grow; producing an unrelenting allergic reaction that progressively and permanently damages the sinuses. Morphological characteristics of this genus are the production of brown conidia that are multi-celled, elliptical, straight or curved. Culture – Potato dextrose agar or Malt extract agar, 20 - 25°C, 7 – 10 days.

Bispora
Phonetic: By-spore-uh
Bispora is a widespread mitosporic fungus. It has been isolated from dead wood in temperate areas in the northern hemisphere. There has been no known research on the health effects, toxicity, or allergens of this fungi. Culture – Potato dextrose agar or Malt extract agar, 20 - 25°C, 7 – 10 days.

Botrytis
Phonetic:  Boh-try-tis
Botrytis sp. is a type I & III allergen, not a known toxin producer or opportunistic pathogen. Mostly reported to be found in tropical and temperate areas. This fungus is a parasite of plants, soft fruits and vegetables. The cause of leaf/root rot on fruits and vegetables such as, strawberries and onions. It is also known as "gray mould" or “noble rot” on wine grapes. Botrytis is known to cause allergies and induce asthma attacks, and is also a rare agent of keratomycosis. In some types of agricultural settings, such as greenhouses, the concentration of aerosolized spores may be greatly enhanced. Botrytis is also used in some types of wine production. Conidia are hyaline or gray in mass, 1-celled, ovoid, and 7-14 x 5-9 microns in size. (Aw – 0.93-0.95) Culture – Potato dextrose agar or Malt extract agar, 20° - 25°C, 7 – 10 days.

Candida
Phonetic: Can-deed’-uh
Candida is a yeast that includes about 154 species, six of which are frequently isolated in human infections. It is a part of the normal flora of skin and other mucous membranes in the body. This fungus is naturally found on leaves, flowers, water, organic debris and in soils. The infections caused by this genus are referred to as candidiasis, and almost any organ or system in the body can be affected. It is the cause of infections such as thrush (mouth infection), esophagitis (esophagus infection), cutaneous candidiasis (skin infection), vaginal yeast infections, and deep candidiasis (blood infection). Overgrowth of this fungus is prevented by the presence of “good” bacteria and by the body’s immune system; if antibiotics decrease the number of bacteria, or if the person’s immune system is weakened because of illness, malnutrition or medications, Candida can multiply and cause symptoms. These species account for more than 85% of all hospitalizations from fungal infections. Mucocutaneous candidiasis is one of the most common manifestations of HIV infection. The environment is not a likely source of exposure for this fungus, and cells from this organism are not usually airborne. Candida albicans is the organism isolated most from patients. Most species of yeast reproduce asexually through a process called budding. The daughter cell is at first much smaller and tends to cling to the parent cell; clumps or chains of cells are often formed. (Aw-062-0.92) Culture – Potato dextrose agar or Malt extract agar, 20° - 25°C, 37°C

Chaetomium
Phonetic:  Kay-toh’-me-um or Chay-toh’-me-um
Chaetomium is found worldwide on a variety of substrates including paper, damp sheetrock, carpet, plant compost, soil, and between layers of wet plywood. Several species have been reported to play a major role in decomposition of cellulose-based materials, and is often found indoors with Stachybotrys. These fungi are able to dissolve the cellulose fibers in cotton and paper and thus cause the materials to disintegrate. The process is especially rapid under moist conditions. During the Second World War, countries lost a great deal of equipment to these species. Chaetomium is reported to have type I & III allergens, and can produce sterigmatocystin, a mycotoxin shown to cause kidney and liver damage in laboratory animals. It is not a common human pathogen, but it has been known to cause skin and nail infections. It is an ascomycete, and in most species the spores are lemon-shaped, with a single germ pore. The spore column results from the breakdown of the asci within the body of the perithecium. The perithecia of Chaetomium are superficial and barrel-shaped, and they are clothed with dark, stiff hairs. It can produce an Acremonium-like state (imperfect stage) on fungal media. Culture - Potato dextrose agar or Malt extract agar, 20° - 25°C, 7 – 10 days.

Cladosporium
Phonetic:  Clad-oh-spore’-ee-um
Cladosporium is widely distributed in air and rotten organic material. C. herbarum is the most frequently found species in outdoor air in temperate climates. It is often found indoors, usually in lesser numbers than outdoors. The dry conidia become easily airborne and are transported over long distances. This fungus is often encountered in dirty refrigerators, especially in reservoirs where condensation is collected. It can easily be seen on moist window frames covering the whole painted area with a velvety olive-green layer. Cladosporium often discolors interior paint, paper, or textiles stored under humid conditions. Houses with poor ventilation, houses with thatched straw roofs and houses situated in damp environments may have heavy concentrations of Cladosporium, which will be easily expressed when domestic mould is analyzed. It is commonly found on the surface of fiberglass duct liner in the interior of supply ducts. It is also found naturally on dead & woody plants, food, straw, soils, paint, and textiles. The ability to sporulate heavily, ease of dispersal, and buoyant spores makes this fungus the most important fungal airway allergen; and together with Alternaria, it commonly causes asthma and hay fever in the Western hemisphere. A few species of this genus cause disease, which range from phaeohyphomycosis, a group of mycotic infections characterized by the presence of demataceous septate hyphae. Infections of the eyes and skin by black fungi (also classified as phaeohyphomycosis), and chromoblastomycosis, chronic localized infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissue that follows the traumatic implantation of the etiologic agent are also caused by this fungus. Chromoblastomycosis lesions are verrucoid, ulcerated, and crusted. Skin abscesses, mycotic keratitis and pulmonary fungus ball have been recorded in immunocompromised patients. It may also cause corneal infections and mycetoma, characterized by localized infections that involve cutaneous and subcutaneous tissue, fascia, and bone consisting of abscesses, granulomata, and draining sinuses, usually in immunocompromised hosts. Cladosporium produces the toxins cladosporin and emodin, but neither of these is very toxic. Fungal colonies are powdery or velvety olive-green to olive-brown. Other characteristics include dark conidia that are 1- or 2-celled and are variable in shape and size, typically ovoid to cylindrical in shape. (Aw–0.84 – 0.88) Culture - Potato dextrose agar or Malt extract agar, 20° - 25°C, 7 – 10 days.

Cladosporium cladosporioides
Widespread distribution. Together with C. herbarum compose the most common species on dead organic matter and in the air. It is found on dead plants, woody plants, food, straw, soil, paint and textiles. Reported allergen. Has been implicated in pulmonary and cutaneous infections, possible sinus infection, mixed disseminated infections. No toxic diseases have been documented to date.

Cladosporium Herbarum
Widespread distribution. Together with Cladosporium Cladosporioides compose the most common species on dead organic matter and in the air. It is found on dead plants, woody plants, food, straw, soil, paint, and textiles. Reported allergen. Has been implicated in cutaneous infections and keatitis. No toxic diseases have been documented to date.

Curvularia
Phonetic:  Curve-you-lair’-ee-uh
Curvularia is reported to be a common type I allergen and is pathogenic to soil, plants, and cereals in tropical and subtropical areas. It is an opportunistic leaf spot fungus and weak pathogen, which survives as a saprobe, and is easily isolated from dead turf and weakened and/or dead plant tissue. Some species of Curvularia are known as storage moulds of grains. This fungus may cause corneal infections, mycetoma and infections in immunocompromised individuals. The species C. lunata is the most commonly encountered species and a cause of disease in humans and animals. Conidiophores are brown, mostly simple, and bear conidia apically; conidia are 3- to 5-celled and curved with a larger and darker central cell. Culture - Potato dextrose agar or Malt extract agar, 20° - 25°C, 7 – 10 days.

Drechslera
Phonetic: Dresh-lair’-uh
Drechslera is a common type I allergen and opportunistic pathogen to certain plant/ grass and animal species. It is a potential toxin producer, commonly found on plant debris, soil, and a variety of substances indoors in tropical to subtropical areas. Drechslera is one of the most commonly found allergenic spores along with Cladosporium, Alternaria, and Epicoccum. They all can cause allergenic symptoms such as hay fever and asthma. Many species are known to cause Drechslera leaf spot, crown rot, and root rot. The fungi will survive for several years in dead clippings or infected grass plants. The highest concentrations of spores are found in the springtime when they are produced and carried to new leaves by air currents, mowers, and splashing water. The spores will then germinate in a film of moisture and infect the leaves, causing the spotting. Culture – Potato dextrose agar or Malt extract agar, 20° – 25°C, 7 – 10 days.

Epicoccum
Phonetic:  Epp-ee-cock-um
Epicoccum is a dematiaceous, mitosporic fungi and is commonly found as a secondary invader in plants, soil, grains, textiles and paper products where Cladosporium and Aureobasidium are present. It is mostly saprophytic, or weakly parasitic. Epicoccum is frequently isolated from air and occasionally occurs in house dust. Epicoccum is reported to be a type I allergen, but not in a high frequency. Some allergenic symptoms are associated with the respiratory tract, and include allergic rhinitis, asthma, and hypersensitivity pneumonitis. These fungi can also produce antibiotic substances, which include flavipin, epicorazine A & B, and indole-3-acetonitrile. Due to the ability of this fungus to grow at 37°C, it can cause infection of skin in humans. Epicoccum is considered to be a dry weather spore and is very resistant to changes in water activity; the fungus has been known to resume growth after extended periods of drying. The spores are produced very rapidly and are at their peak from August to October. Morphological characteristics include production of dark conidia that are several-celled (15-celled), globose, verrucose, 15-25 microns in diameter, and are in a fruiting body (sporodochium). Colonies are usually a shade of red, orange, or yellow. (Aw-0.86-0.90) Culture – Potato dextrose agar or Malt extract agar, 20° – 25°C, 7 – 10 days.

Eurotium
Phonetic:  You-roh’-shum
Eurotium is a cosmopolitan ascomycetous fungus commonly referred to as the anamorph of the genus Aspergillus. Eurotium is a very common soil fungus and is found in tropical to subtropical areas growing on dried and/or concentrated foods, leather, cotton, stored grains, furniture, and rodent dwellings. Eurotium grows best in dry conditions, and is considered to be a xerophilic fungus. (Aw – 064 – 0.85) Culture – Potato dextrose agar or Malt extract agar, 20° – 25°C, 7 – 10 days.

Fusarium
Phonetic: Few-sarh-ee-um
Fusarium is a type I allergen and is an opportunistic pathogen commonly found in soil, plants, grains, and often in humidifiers. While most of the species are found in tropical and subtropical areas, some are found in the soil of cold climates. Some species are plant pathogens causing root and stem rot, vascular wilt or fruit rot, and all require extremely wet conditions for growth. This fungus is the most common cause of mycotic keratitis. It has been isolated from skin lesions of burn patients, nail infections, ear infections, varicose ulcer, mycetoma, osteomyelitis following trauma, and disseminated infections. Infections due to Fusarium are commonly referred to as fusariosis. This fungus produces very harmful toxins, especially in storage of infected crops. These toxins, known as trichothecenes (scierpene) target the circulatory, alimentary, skin, and nervous systems. Fusarium can also produce Vomitoxin, T-2 toxin, Fumonisin, and Zearalenone. Vomitoxin is produced on grains, which has been associated with outbreaks of acute gastrointestinal illness in humans. T-2 Toxin and related trichothecenes are some of the deadliest known toxins. If ingested in sufficient quantity, T-2 toxin can severely damage the entire digestive tract and cause rapid death due to internal hemorrhage. Fumonisin, commonly found in corn and corn based products, has recently been associated with outbreaks of veterinary mycotoxicosis causing "crazy horse disease". Zearalenone toxin is similar in chemical structure to the female sex hormone estrogen and targets the reproductive organs. Fusarium is one of the most drug resistant fungi. Morphological characteristics of this fungus include extensive cotton-like mycelium in culture, often with some tinge of pink, purple or yellow. (Aw - 0.86 - 0.91) Culture - Potato dextrose agar or Malt extract agar, 20° - 25°C, 7 – 10 days.

Geotrichum
Phonetic: Gee-oh’-trick-um
Geotrichum is a type I allergen and common yeast-like fungus found in dairy products, water, sewage, plants, cereals, soils, textiles, and the normal human flora. It is also a common contaminant of moist building materials. It is a colonizer of the intestinal tract and may cause opportunistic infections by ingestion or inhalation in immunocompromised patients (geotrichosis). Pulmonary infections are the most common, but bronchial, oral, vaginal, cutaneous and alimentary infections have also been reported. This fungus is characterized by the formation of chains of colorless, slimy spores (conidia) through the fermentation of vegetative filaments. Some species of Geotrichum have strong odours. Colonies are white to creamy, resembling yeast, but more mature colonies have a mould-like appearance. (Aw– 0.90) Culture - Potato dextrose agar or Malt extract agar, 20° - 25°C, 7 – 10 days.

Gliomastix
Phonetic: Glee-oh-ma’-sticks
Gliomastix is a widespread mitosporic fungus that is commonly found on decaying plants and soils, and has also been isolated from humans. This fungus lacks a known sexual state, and is classified as dematiaceous. It may produce cyclosporins. It is closely related to Acremonium and Paecilomyces. Culture - Potato dextrose agar or Malt extract agar, 20° - 25°C, 7 – 10 days.

Mucor
Phonetic:  M-you-core
Mucor is a ubiquitous fungus made up of approximately 49 species that are often found as saprobes in soils, dead plant material (hay), horse dung, fruits and fruit juice. Also found in leather, meat, dairy products, animal hair, jute, and they are known to be parasitic to stored grain. Mucor is in house dust, air samples, and old dirty carpets, especially in water damaged moist building materials. Wood chips and sawdust are often attacked by M. plimbeus causing "wood chips disease" and "furrier’s lung". It is a Zygomecete fungus that has type I & III allergens. Accumulated dust in ventilation ducts may contain high concentrations of viable Mucor spores. In this case, asthmatic reactions have been described. It is an opportunistic pathogen and may cause mucorosis in immunocompromised individuals. The sites of infections are the lung, nasal sinus, brain, eye, and skin. Few species have been isolated from cases of zygomycosis, but the term mucormycosis has often been used. Zygomycosis includes mucocutaneous and rhinocerebral infections, as well as renal infections, gastritis, and pulmonary infections. M. indicus, M. ramosissimus, and M. circinelloides have all been isolated from human infections, but infection due to these genera are rare. This organism and other Zygomycetes will grow rapidly on most fungal media. Colonies are cottony to fluffy, white to yellow, becoming grayish-brown over time, with a white reverse. Conidia (aplanospores) are globose to ellipsoidal, 7-8 microns in diameter, yellowish brown and slightly rough-walled, and are produced in sporangia that are developed around a piriform columella with typical projections. Identification is based on the way sporangia are formed. It can be differentiated from Absidia, Rhizomucor, and Rhizopus by the absence of stolons and rhizoids. (Aw-0.90-0.94) Culture – Potato dextrose agar or Malt extract agar, 20° – 25°C, 7 – 10 days.

Nigrospora
Phonetic: Nigh-grow-spore-uh
Nigrospora is a type I allergen commonly found in subtropical to tropical areas in soil, decaying plants, and seeds. This fungus can be a plant parasite or saprophyte on living and dead grasses causing ear and stalk rot. It is easily isolated from dead lawn grass in autumn. It is also associated with “squirter” and “black end” disease of banana, elm wilt, damping-off in red pine, rot of cauliflower, bark necrosis of apples, and is a saprobe on rice, causing minute leaf and grain spot. This fungus is a very rare cause of human infection but has been implicated in keratitis and isolated from skin lesions of a leukemia patient. Morphological characteristics include shiny black conidia, that are 1-celled, egg-shaped to flattened-spherical, are produced singly, and often have an equatorial colorless line or germ slit. Nigrospora often appears as white wooly colonies growing fairly rapidly. It can be compared with Humicola, but is differentiated by its very black conidia that originate from hyaline, inflated conidiophores. Culture – Potato dextrose agar or Malt extract agar, 20° – 25°C, 7 – 10 days.

Oidiodendron 
Phonetic:  Oh-id-ee-oh-den-dron
This fungus is commonly found in temperate areas isolated from litter, soil, wood pulp, bark, and other organic debris. Oidiodendron is a known allergen. It may cause an allergic reaction to hypersensitive individuals at low airborne concentrations. Chronic exposure at moderate to high airborne concentrations may result in sensitization and development of allergic disease in previously unaffected individuals. The conidiophores are dark and erect, usually tall, and are terminated by an irregular system of tree-like branches. The spores are brown to colorless and are produced by the fragmentation of the conidiophore branches. Culture – Potato dextrose agar or Malt extract agar, 20° – 25°C, 7 – 10 days.

Oidium
Phonetic:  Oh-id-ee-um
This is a widespread mitosporic fungi commonly found on leaves, stems, flowers, and fruits as a parasite in temperate to tropical areas. It has also been isolated from dust, and is considered to be part of the normal outdoor microbial population. It is a known plant pathogen, and a cause of powdery mildew. One species, Oidium tenellum, has been reported to be a mycoparasite. The name Oidium is used for the asexual or anamorphic states of many species in the Erysiphaceae. Culture – Potato dextrose agar or Malt extract agar, 20° – 25°C, 7 – 10 days.

Paecilomyces
Phonetic:  Pay-sill-oh-my-sees
Paecilomyces is a widespread fungus found in warm, arid regions in soil and plant debris, but also in decaying food or cosmetics, and dust, less frequently it is found in air. It is a secondary invader or saprobe on various plants, and some species are parasitic on insects. This fungus is considered to be thermo-tolerant. This is a clinical opportunistic fungus in the immunocompromised, causing endocarditis, keratitis, and peritonitis. P. variotii can cause paecilomycosis, and is linked to wood-trimmers disease and humidifier-associated illnesses. Some members of this genus are reported to cause pneumonia and pulmonary infections, mycosis, and other subcutaneous infections associated with lungs, skin and eyes. It may also cause toxicosis in humans and animals, especially dogs and cattle. Some of the toxins it produces include paecilotoxins, byssochlamic acid, variotin, ferrirubin, viriditoxin, indole-3-acetic acid, fusigen and patulin. It has type I & III allergens and has been reported as a causative agent of allergic alveolitis. It may produce arsine gas if growing on an arsenic substrate; this can occur on wallpapers covered with paris green. Colonies are fast growing, powdery to suede-like, green-gold, yellow-brown, lilac or tan, but never green or blue-green like Penicillium. This genus is closely related to Penicillium and may be distinguished by having long slender phialides and colonies that are never green. (Aw-0.74-0.84) Culture – Potato dextrose agar or Malt extract agar, 20° – 25°C, 7 – 10 days.

Paecilomyces sp.
Commonly found in soil and dust, less frequently in air. P. variotii can cause paecilomycosis. Linked to wood-trimmers disease and humidifier associated illnesses. They are reported to allergenic. Some members of this genus are reported to cause pneumonia. It may produce arsine gas if growing on arsenic substrate. This can occur on wallpapers covered with paris green.

Penicillium
Phonetic:  Pen-uh-sill’-ee-um
A large number of organisms belong to this genus, and identification to species is difficult. Often found in aerosol samples, it is common in soil, food, cellulose, paint, grains, and compost piles. In the indoor environment it is in carpet, wallpaper, and in interior fiberglass duct insulation. Although this fungus causes fewer allergies than other moulds, Penicillium is reported to be a type I & III allergen. It may cause hypersensitivity pneumonitis and allergic alveolitis in susceptible individuals. It can cause other infections such as keratitis, penicilliosis, and otomycosis. Some species can produce mycotoxins including Ochratoxin, which is damaging to the kidneys and liver and is also a suspected carcinogen; there is also evidence that impairs the immune system. It also produces Citrinin that can cause renal damage, vasodilatation, and bronchial constriction and Gliotoxin, which is immunosuppressive. Patulin is another of its mycotoxins that is believed to cause hemorrhaging in the brain and lungs and is usually associated with apple and grape spoilage. It can also cause extrinsic asthma. P. camemberti has been responsible for inducing occupational allergies among those who work with soft white cheeses on which the fungus grows (cheese washer’s lung). P. marneffei is the major pathogenic species causing infections of the lymphatic system, lungs, liver, skin, spleen, and bone, and is also the only species of the genus to have a yeast-like phase induced by temperature. Penicillium sp. are recognized by their dense brush-like spore-bearing structures. (Aw -0.78-0.86). Culture - Potato dextrose agar or Malt extract agar, 20° – 25°C, 7 – 10 days.

Penicillium brevicompactum
Phonetic: Pen-uh-sill’-ee-um bree-vee-come-pack-tom
Penicillium brevicompactum is commonly found as the primary colonizer in water damaged carpet, moist chipboard, wallpaper and other organic substrates, and some types of insulation. Penicillium brevicompactum can produce the mycotoxins Mycophenolic acid and Brevianimide A. It may also produce mVOC’s such as 2-heptanone, 1-octen-3-ol, and 2-octen-1-ol. It is noted for producing a variety of bioactive chemicals, it produces compounds, which have anti-plant, anti-insect, and anti-fungal properties. Pb virus is one of several viruses that have been isolated from P. brevicompactum. (Aw -0.78) Culture - Potato dextrose agar or Malt extract agar, 20° – 25°C, 7 – 10 days.

Penicillium chrysogenum
Phonetic: Pen-uh-sill’-ee-um cry-soh-gee-num
This species, formerly known as Penicillium notatum, was one of the first known producers of penicillin. It is found on damp building materials, including paints, chipboards, and wallpaper found often in moist homes. It is an agent of food spoilage as it is in household dust and indoor air. It can also act as a food source for some types of dust mites. P. chrysogenum has been identified as a significant allergen in the indoor environment and as a rare causative agent of opportunistic human mycosis. Penicillium chrysogenum is often found growing as a dark green colony and can produce the mycotoxins Roquefortine C, Chrysogine, and Meleagrin. (Aw-0.79) Culture - Potato dextrose agar or Malt extract agar, 20° – 25°C, 7 – 10 days.

Phialophora
Phonetic: Fy-uh-loff-or-uh
This genus is universally found in temperate regions on wood, plant debris, soils, animal feces, air, and a variety of organic substrates. It is considered a water loving fungus, isolated from sub-aquatic debris in bodies of cold freshwater. Some species are plant pathogens and can cause soft-rot on wood, carnation wilt, brown stem rot of soybeans, and vascular wilt and dieback in woody plants. The species P. graminicola was previously considered the causal agent of summer patch disease of turf, and also appears to be a weak saprobe with some biocontrol potential. There are five etiological agents in this genus, P. verrucosa is a causative agent of chromoblastomycosis and phaeomycotic cyst in subtropical to tropical areas. The species, P. bubakii, P. repens, P. parasitica and P. richardsiae are causative agents of subcutaneous phaeohyphomycosis, presenting in the form of mycotic arthritis, subcutaneous cysts, osteomyelitis, and cerebral or disseminated infection. This fungus is characterized by its slow growing brown to black, woolly to cottony colonies bearing phialides directly on the vegetative filaments or on short branches. Culture - Potato dextrose agar or Malt extract agar, 20° – 25°C, 7 – 10 days.

Phoma
Phonetic:  Foam-uh
Phoma is a type I & III indoor air allergen. It is found in soil and on various plant parts and fruit as a parasite. Phoma species are reported to grow extensively on painted walls, particularly in humid places such as showers. It is known to favor potatoes but will also grow on butter and rice. Some species can be pathogenic to humans, causing either systematic or subcutaneous diseases (phaeohyphomycosis). It has also been known to cause mycotic keratitis, a rare skin infection. Morphological characteristics of this fungus include the production of dark colonies resulting from microscopic dark fruiting structures called pycnidia, which harbor one-celled spores. It has been reported to produce pink or purple spots on walls and grow on paint, cement, wood, paper and rubber. Culture - Potato dextrose agar or Malt extract agar, 20° – 25°C, 7 – 10 days.

Pithomyces
Phonetic: Py-though-my-sees
Pithomyces is found growing on decaying plants, especially grasses, soil, and wood in tropical areas, it is rare in cold climates. It may grow on paper but is not prolific indoors. This fungus has demonstrated allergenic activity; it is also considered an etiologic agent in immunocompromised patients. The most common saprophytic species, P. chartarum produces a mycotoxin called sporidesmin (a piperazinedione) known to be pathogenic in animals causing liver damage and facial eczema, a condition of severe dermatitis in cattle, sheep, and goats. Pithomyces can be found on dead vegetative material in pastures, especially ryegrass. It favors warm, wet, humid weather, heavy dews, or irrigation. Spores are produced at the apex of short side branches of vegetative filaments, they are dark brown, and two to several celled. P. chartarum spores have both longitudinal and transverse septa. Culture - Potato dextrose agar or Malt extract agar, 20° – 25°C, 7 – 10 days.

Polythrincium sp.
Polythrincium species comprise a very small proportion of the fungal biota. This genus is somewhat related to Ramularia. No information is available regarding health effects, or toxicity. Allergenicity has not been studied. Our laboratory has never seen this organism growing on environmental surfaces. May be identified in air on spore trap samples (spores have distinctive morphology). Also, spores may be seen in dust as part of the normal influx of outdoor microbial particles. Natural habitat is on leaves.

Rusts
The Order Uredinales, or rusts, are among the most important of the Basidiomycetes. There are about 4000-6000 species of rusts, all of which are plant parasites requiring at least one plant as a host to complete its lifecycle. They attack more types of wild and domesticated plants than any other natural fungus. They have a complex lifecycle, having five different spore types including basidiospores, pycniospores, aeciospores, teliospores, and urediospores (the most common one found). It is a type I allergen, and not a known toxin producer. Rusts produce red or rusty to orange spores. They can be found on trees, flowers, grasses, and other living plant materials. Very rarely found growing indoors, unless their host plants are present. Culture – Not recommended. Microscopy of spores provides tentative identification.

Smuts
Smuts are ubiquitous, type I allergens that are parasitic plant pathogens, which require a living host to complete their life cycle, and are not usually found growing indoors. Smuts are most often found on corn, grass, weeds, flowering plants and other fungi; they are usually disseminated by wind. They are called smuts because they form black powdery spore masses that resemble soot or smut. Smuts are indistinguishable from Myxomycetes and Periconia under 600x microscopy.

Stachybotrys
Phonetic:  Stack-ee-bought-riss
Stachybotrys is commonly found in sub-tropical to tropical areas in soil and decaying plant materials, and is considered a type I & III allergen. Considerable recent media attention has been focused on the fungi Stachybotrys chartarum (atra) due to infant deaths in Cleveland from pulmonary hemosiderosis, which may be associated with contamination of residences with this fungus. Stachybotrys thrives on water damaged cellulose rich materials such as sheet rock, paper, ceiling tiles, cellulose containing insulation backing and wallpaper. The presence of this fungus in buildings is significant because of the mould’s ability to produce mycotoxins, such as Satratoxin H, Trichoverrol, and Cyclosporins that possess cytotoxic, immunological, carcinogenic effects. Exposure to these toxins can occur through inhalation, ingestion or dermal exposure. Symptoms include dermatitis, cough, rhinitis, nose bleeds, a burning sensation in the mouth and nasal passage, cold and flu symptoms, headache, general malaise, and fever. Inhalation of conidia may also induce pathological changes (pneumomycotoxicoses). Satratoxin H has been reported to be abortogenic in animals and in high doses or chronic low doses it can be lethal. S. chartarum (atra) produces other macrocyclic and trichoverroid trichothecenes and, like Memnoniella echinata, produces phenylspirodrimanes, which are immunosuppressive. Stachybotrys typically appears as a sooty black fungus occasionally accompanied by a thick mass of white mycelia. Memnoniella differs from Stachybotrys by producing conidia in chains. As a general rule, air sampling for Stachybotrys yields unpredictable results mainly due to the fact that this fungus is usually accompanied by other fungi such as Aspergillus and Penicillium that normally are better aerosolized than Stachybotrys. Bulk or surface sampling of suspect materials can be analyzed in a laboratory for identification by light microscopy. This fungus is a slow grower on media, therefore does not compete well with other rapidly growing fungi. Colonies are powdery in texture, white, pink, orange or black in color. The species S. chartarum (atra) produces colonies black in color. (Aw-0.91 - >0.98) Culture – ASCM-1 agar, 20° - 25°C, 7 - 10 days.

Stemphylium
Phonetic: Stem-file-ee-um
Stemphylium is reported to be a known type I allergen found mainly in the temperate northern hemisphere on dead and living plants, soils, moist wood, and cellulose materials; rarely found growing indoors, but has been isolated from air filters and dust samples. It can be weakly parasitic or saprophytic on a wide variety of plants, and can cause leaf spots. Stemphylium is not known to be a human pathogen, but sinus infections (phaeohyphomycotic sinusitis) and respiratory disorders have been reported. Conidia are dark conidia, with cross and longitudinal septa, variable in shape, frequently globose, broadly ellipsoid, or ovoid, and often constricted at major septum. Colonies are considerably rapid growing, cottony; light brown or olive-green to black in color. Culture - Potato dextrose agar, 20° – 25°C, 7 – 10 days.

Torula
Phonetic: Tore-you-luh or Tore-rule-uh
Torula is a yeast-like fungus reported to be a type I allergen. It is a saprophyte (weak parasite) in mild areas on soils, dead wood, leaves, food, hay, textiles, and in the air. This fungus can also be found indoors on cellulose-based materials. The species T. ligniperda causes a stain in hardwoods. Torula is one of many fungi that ferment sugars and are commonly found in dairy products, known as Torula yeast. Its popularity in the food industry comes from it being inexpensive to produce, and having a high amino acid (Lysine) and protein content. Morphological characteristics - Conidiophores short, dark, simple, branched or absent; conidia 1-to several-celled, round, dark, and in chains. (Aw-0.62-0.92) Culture - Potato dextrose agar or Malt extract agar, 20° – 25°C, 7 – 10 days.

Trichoderma
Phonetic: Trick-oh-derm-uh
Trichoderma is a widespread saprobe in temperate to tropical areas commonly found in soil and wood. Trichoderma is often found in polluted waters, dung, sewage plants and driftwood. It can be found on paper, and in wood construction and mineral fiber panels. This fungus is highly cellulolytic, and some species are considered to be parasitic on other fungi. Trichoderma is reported as a type I & III allergen. Inhalation of the conidia or the microbial volatile organic compounds (mVOC) may cause symptoms similar to those of Stachybotrys reactions. The species T. viridae is often isolated from indoor air samples and house dust. This species is used in commercial beer, wine and food processing. T. viridae has also been reported from a case of infection of a lungs (fungus ball), and cases of peritonitis (an infection or inflammation of the membrane that covers the surfaces of the organs in the abdomen). Conidia are 1-celled, oblong, smooth, green, and occur in balls or small wet masses at the tips of the phialides (bottle shaped cells that produce conidia). The colonies are fast growing, flat to cottony, white to green-yellow in color. Culture - Potato dextrose agar or Malt extract agar, 20° – 25°C, 7 – 10 days.

Ulocladium
Phonetic: You-low-clad-ee-um
Ulocladium is reported to be a major type I allergen. This saprobe (weak parasite) is widespread and commonly found on plant materials, soils, dung, grass, compost, and textiles. Some species are cellulolytic and can grow on water-damaged building materials. Ulocladium is also found in dust and air samples; and indoors on carpets and painted surfaces. This mitosporic (lacks a sexual state) fungus has been reported from cases of phaeohyphomycosis (cutaneous and subcutaneous infections caused by dematiaceous (dark-walled) fungi). Infection sites for susceptible hosts vary widely. Conidia are dark brown to black, egg-shaped to cylindrical, solitary, smooth or rough, divided into several cells by transverse, longitudinal walls. The colonies are moderately fast growing, wooly to cottony or velvety, olive-brown to black or grayish in color. (Aw - 0.89). Culture - Potato dextrose agar or Malt extract agar, 20° – 25°C, 7 – 10 days.