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 ...   
Epicoccum purpurascens

Epicoccum purpurascens
A moderately rapid-growing fungus that produces a yellowish-orange colony with a red reverse within seven days, when incubated at 25oC (77oF). May produce a yellow, orange, red, or brown diffusible pigment. The hyphae, conidiophores, and conidia are pigmented olivaceous-brown (dematiaceous). It is found worldwide and is very common. It is found in air, plants, grains, textiles, animals, foodstuffs, and paper products. It can cause allergic disease in humans.
 

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For additional information, contact:

Pure Air Control Services

800-422-7873, ext. 802