Microascus sp

Ascomycetes. Anamorph (asexual state): Scopulariopsis, Wardomyces.

Microascus species are common but comprise a small proportion of the fungal biota. This genus is most closely related to other perithecial forming ascomycetes such as Melanospora. Some species of Microascus have been isolated from clinical sources such as cases of onychomycosis, cutaneous lesions, and mycetomas. Microascus manginii was reported to be the cause of a disseminated infection in a leukemic patient in 1987. No information is available regarding other inhalation health effects or toxicity. Allergenicity has not been studied. May be identified on surfaces by tape lifts, and tease mounts from bulk samples. If Microascus spores are isolated on culturable (Andersen) sampling, the Scopulariopsis anamorph is likely to be the identifiable result, at least with primary growth within one week. May be identified on spore trap samples if the presence of this genus has already been demonstrated (for example, on tape lifts). (Spores have somewhat distinctive morphology but may be confused with other genera.) Recorded isolations are from sunflower seeds, soybeans, sand, soil, chicken litter, and waste compost.