The appearance of the domicile cup fungus, typically Peziza domiciliana, indoors can be alarming for homeowners. This fungus is a signal of water damage and high moisture levels within a structure, often growing on materials like plaster, damp wood, or carpet. The following information explores the health implications and practical steps to manage the presence of this fungus.
Identifying the Domicile Cup Fungus
The domicile cup fungus is characterized by its distinct fruiting body, which is circular and cup-shaped when young. It generally appears yellowish to pale brown, sometimes with a slight central depression, and can grow up to four inches in diameter, flattening out with age. This fungus is saprobic, meaning it derives nutrients from decaying organic matter, and it thrives in consistently damp conditions. The fungus colonizes materials that contain cellulose, including drywall, plasterboard, carpets, and even concrete dust or coal dust in cellars and basements.
Direct Toxicity and Ingestion Risk
The primary concern regarding the domicile cup fungus is often whether it is poisonous if eaten. Peziza domiciliana is generally considered non-toxic, though it is not edible due to its rubbery texture and lack of flavor. Current scientific information does not classify this specific species as containing known human toxins. Despite the lack of documented acute poisoning, ingestion should be avoided, particularly by pets or small children.
Spore Release and Respiratory Effects
The most significant health concern related to the domicile cup fungus comes from the release of its airborne spores. Like other indoor molds and fungi, Peziza domiciliana forcibly ejects microscopic spores from its cup-shaped fruiting bodies, which can be seen as a faint powdery cloud if disturbed. These spores become part of the indoor air and can be inhaled, potentially affecting the respiratory system.
In sensitive individuals, exposure to these spores can trigger allergic reactions. Symptoms often include persistent sneezing, coughing, watery eyes, and a runny nose. Individuals with pre-existing conditions like asthma may experience an increase in the frequency or severity of their attacks due to the presence of the airborne spores.
In rare but documented instances, exposure to Peziza domiciliana spores has been implicated in cases of hypersensitivity pneumonitis, a serious lung condition. This involves an immune-mediated inflammatory response deep within the lungs, leading to symptoms like severe shortness of breath and restrictive lung disease.
Remediation and Prevention
The process of eliminating the domicile cup fungus involves a two-step approach that prioritizes moisture control. Simply removing the visible fruiting bodies is only a temporary solution, as the main body of the fungus, the mycelium, remains embedded within the damp material. The immediate action must be to identify and completely stop the source of water intrusion or high humidity, such as fixing a leak or improving ventilation. Once the moisture source is addressed, the contaminated materials, such as damp drywall or carpet, should be physically removed and discarded. For extensive growth or when the fungus is found in inaccessible areas, professional mold and fungal remediation services may be necessary to ensure complete removal and prevent recurrence.