Memnoniella sp

Mitosporic fungus. Hyphomycetes.

Characteristics

Distribution

Cosmopolitan.
Approx. 5 species.

Where Found

Plant litter, soil, many types of plants and trees.

Mode of Dissemination

Dry spore.
Wind.

Growth Indoors

Yes, on a variety of substrates.
Cellulolytic.

Industrial Uses

Not known.

Other Comments

Very closely related to Stachybotrys.
M. echinata produces acetic acid.

Potential Health Effects

Allergens

Not studied.

Potential Opportunist or Pathogen

Not known.

Potential Toxin Production

Trichothecenes (trichodermol and trichodermin) and griseofulvins. Trichothecene toxicity is due to the ability to bind ribosomal protein. Griseofulvin has been made commercially available as an anti-dermatophyte drug.

Laboratory Notes

Growth/Culture Characteristics

Grows on general fungal media, forming dark gray to black colonies. In Memnoniella the spores do not slime down but are held in long chains.

Spore Trap Recognition

Distinctive. Frequently found in conjunction with Stachybotrys species.

Tape Lift Recognition

Distinctive, readily identifiable on tape lifts.