Is Your Stachybotrys Chartarum a Genuine S. Chartarum?
The fungus Stachybotrys chartarum is the type species of the genus Stachybotrys. Certain strains of the species are known to produce trichothecene mycotoxins,. It is a celluolytic saprophyte with worldwide distribution and frequently discovered in water-damaged buildings. Evidences of the detrimental effects on human health due to respiratory exposure to this fungus have been reported. However, morphological and mycotoxin profile studies showed that this species is not well delineated. This presentation reviews and summarizes data and evidences regarding the taxonomic status of the epithet S. chartarum.
