Botrytis Mold - What is it?

30+ species. Ubiquitous.  These types of mold can be found in temperate or subtropical areas.  Dry spore distributed by wind and rain.

Where does it grow outside?

Soil, stored and transported fruit and vegetables. Plant pathogen and saprophyte on flowers, leaves, stems, fruit. Leaf rot on grapes, strawberries, lettuce, cabbage, onions.

Where does botrytis grow inside?

Often found growing on indoor plants.

Is botrytis  considered a “black mold”?

The term black mold (also “toxic black mold”) is not scientific but is widely used by the media to usually reference Stachybotrys molds.

Health Concerns with Botrytis

Is botrytis a potential allergen?

Some of people may experience hay fever, asthma or Winegrower’s lung.

Does it present any unique human risks? (as pathogen, opportunist or contaminant)*

These molds can lead to rare cases of keratomycosis.

Can botrytis produce toxins?**

Not known.

Identification of Botrytis

Can botrytis be identified via Air Sampling?

Can botrytis be identified via Direct Sampling?

What are some of its industrial uses?

Not known.

Other comments:

A type of mold referred to some as “grey rot” is know by winegrowers as “noble rot”.