Aspergillus versicolor

Aw 0.78. Conidia dimensions: 2-3.5 microns. Mostly in temperate zones, it is commonly found in air, house dust, foods (including dairy products), soil, hay, and cotton. It sometimes produces the mycotoxin "sterigmatocystin", which can cause diarrhea and upset stomach, and is a possible carcinogen, affecting the liver and kidneys. Various other toxins are associated with A. versicolor, such as aspercolorin, averufin, cyclopiazonic acid, and versicolorin. Additionally, the volatile organic compound (VOC) "geosmin" is generated by the action of this mold. Often an irritant to mucus membranes of humans and pets, geosmin has a musty, earthy odor.