Chaetomium species

A rapidly-growing fungus that produces a white to yellow to yellowish-green colony, within ten days, when incubated at 25oC (77oF). It may produce an earthy odor. It is found worldwide. It is an important cause of decay of cotton and other cellulose materials; cause of soft rot in wood and fruit rot; and is important in the decomposition of plant material in composts. It can be isolated from dung, straw, bird feathers, soil and plants. It may be associated with allergic disease.

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