Stachybotrys

Stachybotrys
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Fungi
Phylum:	Ascomycota
Class:	Sordariomycetes
Order:	Hypocreales
Family:	Stachybotryaceae
Genus:	Stachybotrys Corda, 1837
Species
~ 50, see text

~ 50, see text

Stachybotrys (Stak-ē-bot′ris) is a genus of molds, hyphomycetes or asexually reproducing, filamentous fungi. Historically, it was considered closely related to the genus Memnoniella, because the spores are produced in slimy heads rather than in dry chains. Recently, the synonymy of the two genera is generally accepted. Most Stachybotrys species inhabit materials rich in cellulose. The genus has a widespread distribution, and contains about 50 species. The name comes from the Greek words "stakhus" (ear of grain, stalk, stick; σταχυς) or "stachy" (progeny) and "botrus" (cluster or bunch as in grapes, trusses; βότρυς).

The most infamous species, S. chartarum (previously known as S. atra) and S. chlorohalonata, are known as "black mold" or "toxic black mold" in the U.S., and are frequently associated with poor indoor air quality that arises after fungal growth on water-damaged building materials. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, "The term 'toxic mold' is not accurate. While certain molds are toxigenic, meaning they can produce toxins (specifically mycotoxins), the molds themselves are not toxic, or poisonous. Hazards presented by molds that may produce mycotoxins should be considered the same as other common molds which can grow in your house."

The CDC recommends using soap and water or bleach to remove the mold.

A controversy began in the early 1990s after analysis of two infant deaths and multiple cases in children from the poor areas of Cleveland, Ohio, due to pulmonary hemorrhage were initially linked to exposure to heavy amounts of Stachybotrys chartarum. Subsequent and extensive reanalysis of the cases by the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have failed to find any link between the deaths and the mold exposure.

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Wikipedia