Stachybotrys Species Information

The genus Stachybotrys is a cosmopolitan fungus with a world-wide distribution.

Stachybotrys Scientific Information

The conidiophores may be hyaline or pigmented with ellipsoidal phialides in groups of 3 to 10. Conidia are ellipsoidal, black, and smooth to roughened.

Stachybotrys Growth Characteristics

Stachybotrys species have a slow to moderately rapid growth rate. Colonies are generally black but may also appear white, pink, or orange in color. Stachybotrys colonies have a powdery texture.

Where is Stachybotrys found?

Stachybotrys species are commonly isolated from soil and decaying plant material. Stachybotrys is highly cellulolytic. Indoors it is commonly isolated from water-damaged materials, including wallpaper backing and drywall elements.

Is Stachybotrys Allergenic?

Stachybotrys can cause allergic and asthmatic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Toxins Produced by Stachybotrys

Stachybotrys species produce a number of mycotoxins that may be deleterious to human and animal health. These mycotoxins include the trichothecenes roridan E, satratoxins F, G, and H, and verrucarin J.

Stachybotrys Health Effects

No cases of human or animal infection have been reported.

Is Stachybotrys a "black mold"