Fungal Glossary

These are a common plant pathogen involved in the decomposition of plants. In the indoor environment they are found growing on a variety of substrates including sheetrock and other building materials. They are common allergens causing hay fever or hypersensitivity reactions.

Characteristics: Potential allergen.

These are a plant pathogen found in soil and decomposing plant material. Not typically found growing indoors. One species has been determined to be an allergen.

Characteristics:  Typically found growing outdoors.

These are a very large group of spores that are found everywhere in nature. They are commonly found outdoors and associated with rain and moisture. Some species grow well indoors on damp materials. Ascospores have allergenic potential, however, it is species dependent.

Characteristics:  Typically found growing outdoors, Considered water damage indicator.

These are two of the most common genera in the world. They can be found everywhere in nature, both indoors and outdoors. Indoors they can be found on water damaged wallpaper, carpet, and other organic materials. They can also grow well in conditions of high humidity. Many species are allergens and a common cause of respiratory irritation. Some species are human and animal pathogens and can cause infection.

 Characteristics:  Potential allergen, Considered water damage indicator. 

These are primarily comprised of mushrooms and shelf fungi. They are typically found outdoors. Occasionally they are found indoors growing on any organic matter causing dry rot. Some species can be an allergen to sensitive individuals.

Characteristics:  Typically found growing outdoors. 

These are a plant pathogen typically found outdoors on grasses, grains, and decaying food. Indoors they can be found on plants and building materials. They are an allergen that can affect the nose, skin, eyes and upper respiratory track.

Characteristics:  Typically found growing outdoors, Potential allergen.

These are a plant pathogen typically found growing on vegetation particularly in temperate and

subtropical climates. Indoors they can be found growing on plants. They are a potential allergen

causing hay fever and asthma effects.

Characteristics:  Typically found growing outdoors, Potential allergen.

These are typically found indoors on water damaged cellulose containing materials such as paper, sheetrock, and wallpaper. Not well studied but possible allergen with hay fever and asthma effects.

Characteristics: Potential allergen, Considered water damage indicator, Potential to produce

mycotoxins.

One of the most common genera in both the indoor and outdoor environments. Indoors they grow well in damp environments and areas where condensation builds. They are often found on textiles, window sills, in bathrooms, and A/C systems. They are a common allergen when airborne.

Characteristics: Potential allergen.

Primarily found outdoors on plants and soil especially in subtropical and tropical environments. Indoors they grow on a variety of building materials. They are a common allergen causing hay fever, asthma, and allergic fungal sinusitis.

Characteristics: Typically found growing outdoors, Potential allergen.

Outdoors they are found in the soil, air, and rotting vegetation. Indoors they grow well on a variety of building materials such as paper and textiles. They are a potential allergen with hay fever, asthma, and skin allergy effects.

Characteristics: Potential allergen.

Indoors they are typically found under very wet conditions. Some places they can be found are dust in carpet and mattresses, damp walls, wallpaper, and duct liner. They are a potential allergen causing hay fever and asthma effects.

Characteristics: Potential allergen, Considered water damage indicator, Potential to producemycotoxins.