There are over 100,000 species of fungi. Many fungi are good and useful (edible mushrooms would be an example of these) while some cause problems (some fungi can injure plants and humans). Every week the IEQ Review will describe a specific microorganism, its morphological origin and potential health effects.  If you would like to know about a specific organism and/or would like it published in The IEQ Review please email Dr. Rajiv Sahay with the Environmental Diagnostics Laboratory (EDL) at Pure Air Control Services laboratory@pureaircontrols.com

This week we will cover ...   
Torula species



Torula is a rapidly-growing fungus that produces a dark brown colony within ten days, when incubated at 25oC (77oF). It has worldwide distribution but is very common in temperate climates. It can be isolated from air, soil, decaying plants, wood, fresh water, sea water, bird nesting materials, and nuts. There have not been any reports of human infections, however, it can cause allergic disease.

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