Mold Library
Chaetomium
Distribution
Chaetomium species inhabit a variety of substrates containing cellulose including paper, dung and plant compost, and play a major role in decomposition of cellulose-containing materials. Chaetomium can often be found in water damaged buildings growing on plywood and on the paper lining of sheetrock. The most common isolated Chaetomium in indoor environments is C. globosum.
Growth Characteristics
Chaetomium colonies grow rapidly, often emitting a 'musty' odor. In culture, they are initially cottony and white in color, turning grey to olive in color at maturity with a tan to red or brown to black reverse. Some species are heat-tolerant and can survive temperatures up to 142oF (61oC).
Microscopic Characteristics
Chaetomium is an ascomycete that produces densely hairy, dark brown to black, flask-shaped fruiting bodies (perithecia). These perithecia contain asci, club-shaped to cylindrical sac-like structures that contain 4 to 8 ascospores. Ascospores are one-celled, light to dark olive brown in color, and distinctly lemon shaped.
Health Effects
Chaetomium is reported to be allergenic and some species may produce mycotoxins. Some species of Chaetomium are among the fungi that cause infections referred to as phaeohyphomycosis. Chaetomium can also cause serious systemic infections in immunocompromised patients.