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 ...  
 
Paecilomyces variotii



Paecilomyces variotii

A rapidly-growing fungus that produce an olivaceous colony, within fourteen days, when incubated at 25oC (77oF). It produces a sweet aromatic odor. It is a common fungus found worldwide. It can be isolated from soil, swamps, dunes, plants, composite, animal dung, wood pulp and paper, insects, and bird feathers. Rarely, it can be an opportunistic human pathogen causing wood trimmers disease, humidifier associated illnesses, and allergic disease.

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For additional information, contact:

Pure Air Control Services

800-422-7873, ext. 802