Torula
Growth & Distribution
Torula is a common mold with worldwide distribution. At least one species is thermophilic (thrives in high heat) (22).
Water Activity: 0.80 (this is a generalized number for common molds)(26).
Outdoors
Found in soil and dead or decaying plant matter (grasses, grains, woods, root vegetables). Can be pathogenic in plants (7).
Indoors
Spores can be found indoors as a result of normal air exchange with the outdoor environment. Growth indoors is not common but can occur on damp, cellulosic materials such as wood, paper, and cardboard.
Health Effects
Allergen:
In sensitive individuals, typically manifests Type I or Type III hypersensitivity reactions. These include allergic asthma, conjunctivitis (redness of the eye), rhinitis (hay fever), anaphylaxis, angioedema (dermal swelling), urticarial (hives) or hypersensitivity pneumonitis & allergic sinusitis (Type III). (5)
Pathogen:
No known reports in humans
Toxins/Metabolites:
Cytotoxin (12)
