Syncephalastrum racemosum

Syncephalastrum racemosum is a species of fungus belonging to the family Syncephalastraceae. It is a common environmental mold that is found worldwide, particularly in soil and decaying organic matter.

Taxonomy

The genus Syncephalastrum was first described by the German mycologist Heinrich Friedrich Link in 1809. The species Syncephalastrum racemosum was later described by the French mycologist Marie Maxime Cornu in 1872.

Description

Syncephalastrum racemosum is characterized by its unique branching structure, which resembles a raceme. The hyphae are coenocytic, meaning they lack septa, or cross-walls. The sporangia, or spore-producing structures, are borne on the tips of the branches and contain numerous spores.

Ecology

Syncephalastrum racemosum is a saprophyte, meaning it obtains its nutrients from dead or decaying organic matter. It is commonly found in soil, compost heaps, and other areas rich in organic matter.

Health effects

While Syncephalastrum racemosum is generally harmless to healthy individuals, it can cause mycosis, or fungal infection, in immunocompromised individuals. The most common form of infection is pulmonary mycosis, or lung infection.

Treatment

Treatment for Syncephalastrum racemosum infection typically involves antifungal medications, such as amphotericin B or itraconazole. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary.

See also

• Mucorales
• Zygomycosis