Trichoderma
Trichoderma spp.
Also known as: T. viride, T. harzianum, Green mold
Fast-growing woolly white colonies developing characteristic green sporulation; often shows concentric ring pattern; may have yellow-green to dark green coloring
Trichoderma at a Glance
Trichoderma (Trichoderma spp.) is a moderate-risk, allergenic mold with moderate allergenic potential. It most often grows in water-damaged drywall, wet wood products, cardboard and paper, and its primary health concerns are respiratory irritation, allergic reactions, hypersensitivity pneumonitis, eye irritation. Confirmation requires laboratory analysis of collected samples — visual identification alone is not conclusive.
- Risk level
- Moderate
- Category
- Allergenic
- Common growth locations
- Water-damaged drywall, Wet wood products, Cardboard and paper, Carpet and padding
- Primary health concerns
- Respiratory irritation, Allergic reactions, Hypersensitivity pneumonitis, Eye irritation
InspectaMold provides independent inspection and laboratory testing for Trichoderma across Southeast Louisiana — assessment and documentation only. We do not perform remediation, so findings stay unbiased.
Gulf Coast Relevance: High
Frequently found in Louisiana and Mississippi Gulf Coast homes.
Appearance & Identification
Woolly to cottony; develops compact green spore areas
Rapidly spreading colonies with concentric rings often visible
Moderate to high moisture; aggressive colonizer of damp cellulose
Growth Conditions
75-95%
0.90-0.95 aw
59-86°F (15-30°C)
Common Growth Locations
Health Considerations
Respiratory irritation, Allergic sensitization, Potential hypersensitivity reactions
moderate
Moderate - rare cause of infections but documented in severely immunocompromised including peritonitis, pneumonia, and disseminated disease
Some species produce trichodermin, gliotoxin, and other metabolites. Generally considered less hazardous than Stachybotrys but extended exposure to high concentrations warrants attention
How Our Inspectors Detect It
Found in materials with >20% moisture content
- •Drywall (paper facing)
- •Wood products
- •Cardboard
- •Carpet backing
- •Cellulose insulation
- •Moisture in building materials
- •Basement/crawlspace moisture
- •Hidden water damage
Remediation Considerations
Remove significantly contaminated porous materials
Clean with antimicrobial; address moisture
High - address water intrusion source; structural drying
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Trichoderma (Trichoderma spp.) dangerous?
Trichoderma is classified as a moderate-risk, allergenic mold with moderate allergenic potential. Primary health concerns include respiratory irritation, allergic reactions, hypersensitivity pneumonitis, eye irritation. Moderate - rare cause of infections but documented in severely immunocompromised including peritonitis, pneumonia, and disseminated disease A professional assessment determines the extent and the right response for your property.
Where does Trichoderma grow in Gulf Coast homes?
Trichoderma commonly appears in water-damaged drywall, wet wood products, cardboard and paper, carpet and padding. It thrives at 75-95% relative humidity with a water activity of 0.90-0.95 aw, conditions that are common across humid Southeast Louisiana properties.
How do you identify Trichoderma?
Fast-growing woolly white colonies developing characteristic green sporulation; often shows concentric ring pattern; may have yellow-green to dark green coloring Colonies are typically white, green, yellow-green with a woolly to cottony; develops compact green spore areas texture. Distinctive sweet, coconut-like odor unique among common molds Confirmation requires professional sampling and laboratory analysis rather than visual identification alone.
What does remediation of Trichoderma involve?
Trichoderma typically calls for standard containment. Remove significantly contaminated porous materials High - address water intrusion source; structural drying InspectaMold documents the conditions and provides an independent protocol so the underlying moisture source is corrected, not just the visible growth.
Concerned about Trichoderma in your property?
InspectaMold provides independent, lab-backed mold inspection and air quality testing across Southeast Louisiana. Get an accurate identification and a clear plan.