Curvularia sp

Mitosporic fungus. Hyphomycetes. Teleomorph (sexual state): Cochliobolus (Ascomycete).

Characteristics

Distribution

Ubiquitous;
cosmopolitan.
More commonly found in tropical, subtropical regions.
Approx. 30 species.

Where Found

Plant debris, soil, facultative plant pathogens of tropical or subtropical plants.

Mode of Dissemination

Dry spore.
Wind.

Growth Indoors

Yes, on a variety of substrates.

Industrial Uses

Not known.

Other Comments

None.

Potential Health Effects

Allergens

Common.
Type I allergies (hay fever, asthma).
Other: A relatively common cause of allergic fungal sinusitis.

Potential Opportunist or Pathogen

Occasionally a cause of onychomycosis, ocular keratitis, sinusitis, mycetoma, pneumonia, endocarditis, cerebral abscess, and disseminated infection. Most cases are from immunocompromised patients.

Potential Toxin Production

Not known.

Laboratory Notes

Growth/Culture Characterisics

Grows well on general fungal media; most isolates need "light/dark cycling" for sporulation. Colonies are shades of gray to brown.

Spore Trap Recognition

Distinctive; large second or center cell gives conidia pronounced curved shape. Conidia from species with less pronounced curve may be misidentified. Some Drechslera spores are similar.

Tape Lift Recognition

Distinctive, readily identifiable on tape lifts.