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 ...   
Nocardia asteroides



Nocardia asteroides
An aerobic gram-positive organism that develop rudimentary to branched vegetative filaments. The colonies are small, leathery and have a granular, powdery or velvety appearance due to the aerial mycelium present. Colonies may be white or salmon to pinkish with a white fringe and may produce an earthy odor. It has been isolated from soil, beach sand, house dust, swimming pools, tap water, plants, compost, and manure. It can cause human infections following inhalation, or by contamination of an area of trauma.

 

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For additional information, contact:

Pure Air Control Services

800-422-7873, ext. 802