Memnoniella

Closely resembles the Stachybotrys mold, and can generally be found growing together. They are both considered toxic and produce the same types of allergic symptoms in humans. The major difference relates to size – memnoniella mold is smaller, making it easier for it to penetrate the lining of the lungs.Although it does not usually produce life-threatening health problems, it can seriously affect asthma sufferers and persons with various common allergies. The most typical symptoms include throat irritation, eye and nose itchiness and rashes. Spending time in a closed-in area that is infected with mold and mildew can eventually erode a person’s autoimmune system, causing symptoms to gradually increase in severity.

Memnoniella is a contaminant, found most often with Stachybotrys on wet cellulose. Forms in chains, but it is very similar to Stachybotrys and sometimes is considered to be in the Stachybotrys family. Certain species do produce toxins very similar to the ones produced by Stachybotrys chartarum and many consider the IAQ importance of Memnoniella to be on par with Stachybotrys. Allergenic and infectious properties are not well studied.

Allergen not studied. Potential opportunist or pathogen not known. It has potential toxic 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.

Description

Mode of Dissemination: Dry spore carried by the wind.

Growth Indoors

Yes, on many different substrates It is very closely related to Stachybotrys. M. echinata produces acetic acid. This mold is very distinctive. It is frequently found in conjunction with Stachybotrys species

Further reading

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Author: Carolyn Willbanks