Distribution
Ubiquitous;
cosmopolitan.
Approx. 9 species.
Where Found
Soil, dung, paint, grasses, fibers, wood, decaying plant material, paper, and textiles.
Mode of Dissemination
Dry spore.
Wind.
Growth Indoors
Widespread. Found on gypsum board, paper, paint, tapestries, jute, other straw materials. Ulocladium has a high water requirement.
Industrial Uses
Not known.
Other Comments
None.
Allergens
Major.
Type I allergies (hay fever, asthma).
Ulocladium cross-reacts with Alternaria, adding to the allergenic burden of Alternaria-sensitive patients.
Potential Opportunist or Pathogen
Rare subcutaneous tissue infection.
Potential Toxin Production
Not known.
Growth/Culture Characteristics
Grows well on all general fungal media. Colonies are dark brown to rusty brown, granular to velvety. Geniculate sporulating structures can be observed with the stereoscope.
Spore Trap Recognition
Distinctive brown spores. Young spores or spore fragments may be confused with Alternaria, Pithomyces, and others, although Alternaria usually has shades of olive green pigment.
Tape Lift Recognition
Distinctive, readily identifiable on direct observation. Certain species may form rudimentary beaks and short chains which may be confused with Alternaria.