Paecilomyces
Paecilomyces spp.
Also known as: P. variotii, P. lilacinus
Fast-growing colonies; P. variotii produces yellow-brown colonies, P. lilacinus produces distinctive lilac to purple coloring; powdery texture
Gulf Coast Relevance: High
Frequently found in Louisiana and Mississippi Gulf Coast homes.
Appearance & Identification
Powdery to floccose; characteristic brush-like structures
Spreading colonies with distinctive coloring
Moderate to high moisture; heat tolerant
Growth Conditions
70-95%
0.84-0.95 aw
68-113°F (20-45°C) - thermotolerant
Common Growth Locations
Health Considerations
Respiratory irritation, Hypersensitivity reactions, Allergic sensitization
moderate
Elevated - P. lilacinus particularly associated with eye infections (keratitis) and skin/subcutaneous infections; systemic infections in immunocompromised
P. variotii may produce patulin and other metabolites; typically lower concern than food contamination scenarios
How Our Inspectors Detect It
Found in materials with >18% moisture content
- •HVAC insulation
- •Attic materials
- •Soil contamination
- •Wood products
- •Warm, moist environments
- •HVAC heat signatures
- •Insulation moisture
Remediation Considerations
Remove contaminated porous insulation and materials
Clean with antimicrobial; address moisture
High - address humidity and HVAC moisture
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Paecilomyces (Paecilomyces spp.) dangerous?
Paecilomyces is classified as a moderate-risk, opportunistic mold with moderate allergenic potential. Primary health concerns include eye infections (keratitis), respiratory irritation, skin infections, allergic reactions. Elevated - P. lilacinus particularly associated with eye infections (keratitis) and skin/subcutaneous infections; systemic infections in immunocompromised A professional assessment determines the extent and the right response for your property.
Where does Paecilomyces grow in Gulf Coast homes?
Paecilomyces commonly appears in hvac systems and insulation, soil and compost materials, humidifier systems, damp building materials. It thrives at 70-95% relative humidity with a water activity of 0.84-0.95 aw, conditions that are common across humid Louisiana and Mississippi Gulf Coast properties.
How do you identify Paecilomyces?
Fast-growing colonies; P. variotii produces yellow-brown colonies, P. lilacinus produces distinctive lilac to purple coloring; powdery texture Colonies are typically yellow, brown, olive with a powdery to floccose; characteristic brush-like structures texture. Earthy, musty odor Confirmation requires professional sampling and laboratory analysis rather than visual identification alone.
What does remediation of Paecilomyces involve?
Paecilomyces typically calls for standard containment. Remove contaminated porous insulation and materials High - address humidity and HVAC moisture InspectaMold documents the conditions and provides an independent protocol so the underlying moisture source is corrected, not just the visible growth.
Concerned about Paecilomyces in your property?
InspectaMold provides independent, lab-backed mold inspection and air quality testing across the Louisiana and Mississippi Gulf Coast. Get an accurate identification and a clear plan.