Aureobasidium Species Information

15+ species. Ubiquitous, Cosmopolitan.

Aureobasidium Growth Characteristics

Aureobasidium (Pullularia) may be pink or black in color

It will grow in cooler climates and along with Cladosporium is

Because its growth form is yeast-like (and are not forcibly discharged), its cells/spores only become airborne through mechanical disruption of contaminated materials or aspiration of contaminated water

Wet spore type Distributed by wind when dried out.

It grows in soil, forest soils, fresh water, aerial portion of plants, fruit, marine estuary sediments, wood.

Where is Aureobasidium found?

This yeast-like fungus is commonly found on caulk or damp window frames in bathrooms

This is one type of mold that is a type of mildew

commonly found growing on siding

Pullularia occurs indoors in areas of free water, such as condensate pans, or as a primary colonist of broadloom following a flood

Commonly found growing indoors on surfaces that are continually damp in bathrooms and kitchens such as shower curtains tile grout and window sills.

Is Aureobasidium Allergenic?

Although it seldom causes infections, it can be allergenic.

High airborne levels of this fungus have been associated with allergic complaints probably due to respiratory irritation mediated by cell-wall components (e. g. beta glucans, glycoproteins), it has also been known as an irritant, and to cause pulmonary problems (small airway).

This mold is a potential allergen. Some of people may experience hay fever, asthma, humidifier fever or sauna taker’s lung

Toxins Produced by Aureobasidium

Aureobasidium pullulans is not a primary human pathogen nor is it recognized as a producer of significant mycotoxins

Aureobasidium Health Effects

It can present risks to humans. There are rare reports have shown the presence in skin lesions and keratitis.

Aureobasidium Uses

For this mold there are several industrial uses: one species (A. pullulans) produce pullulan which is a biodegradable polysaccharide processed into fibers and used for packaging food and drug products.

How to test for / identify the presence of Aureobasidium

In air sampling, it can be difficult to differentiate from other types of dematiaceous fungi due to the varying morphologies.

In direct sampling, sometimes it is hard for the lab to identify if a small amount of structures have been lifted.

Is Aureobasidium a "black mold"