Stachybotrys chartarum
1. Classification
a. Higher order taxa
Eukaryota (Kingdom), Fungi (Domain), Ascomycota (Phylum), Sordariomycetes (Class), Hypocreales (Order), Stachybotryaceae (Family), Stachybotrys (Genus) [1]
b. Species
Stachybotrys chartarum
2. Description and significance
Stachybotrys chartarum, more commonly known as black mold, is a fungus prevalent in various environments, ranging from damp indoor spaces to food sources that both humans and livestock ingest [2]. Although its morphology and taxonomy were initially described in the 1830s by August Carl Joseph Corda, subsequent studies throughout the 20th century have raised questions about its size, ratio of conidia and phialides, and delineation from other species [3]. S. chartarum produces mycotoxins associated with detrimental health effects in humans and animals. It is the proposed pathogen for localized incidences of pulmonary hemorrhage in infants and other severe pulmonary conditions [4]. Current research efforts are still trying to discern the scope of its biological capabilities regarding indoor air quality and human health effects [3].
3. Genome structure
The complete genome of S.chartarum strain 51-11 spans approximately 40Mb [5]. With 9 sequence runs performed by Illumina Sequencing, there were approximately 736 million bases total, with about 2,600 bases per read5. The GC content for the S.chartarum genome is 53% [6]. Furthermore, based on the genes essential for satratoxin and atranone production (satratoxin cluster, SC1-3, sat or atranone cluster, AC1, atr), S. chartarum can be categorized into three groups: the S-type possessing all sat- but no atr-genes, the A-type lacking the sat- but harboring all atr-genes, and the H-type having only certain sat- and all atr-genes [6]. Genotype H is believed to represent the most ancient form of this fungus, with genotype S emerging from a loss of AC1 and the simultaneous acquisition of SC2 [6]. The development from genotype H to genotype A is believed to be accompanied by the loss of SC1 and SC3 [6].
4. Cell structure
Interesting features of cell structure. Can be combined with “metabolic processes”
5. Metabolic processes
Describe important sources of energy, electrons, and carbon (i.e. trophy) for the organism/organisms you are focusing on, as well as important molecules it/they synthesize(s).
6. Ecology
Habitat; symbiosis; contributions to the environment.
7. Pathology
How does this organism cause disease? Human, animal, plant hosts? Virulence factors, as well as patient symptoms.
8. Current Research
Include information about how this microbe (or related microbes) are currently being studied and for what purpose
9. References
It is required that you add at least five primary research articles (in same format as the sample reference below) that corresponds to the info that you added to this page. [Sample reference] Faller, A., and Schleifer, K. "Modified Oxidase and Benzidine Tests for Separation of Staphylococci from Micrococci". Journal of Clinical Microbiology. 1981. Volume 13. p. 1031-1035.
