Pestalotiopsis microspora

Pestalotiopsis microspora is a species of endophytic fungus capable of breaking down and digesting polyurethane. Originally identified in fallen foliage of common ivy (Hedera helix) in Buenos Aires, it also causes leaf spot in Hypericum 'Hidcote' (Hypericum patulum) shrubs in Japan.

Its polyurethane degradation activity was discovered in two distinct P. microspora strains isolated from plant stems in the Yasuni National Forest within the Ecuadorian Amazon rainforest by a group of student researchers led by molecular biochemistry professor Scott Strobel as part of Yale's annual Rainforest Expedition and Laboratory. It's the first fungus species found to be able to subsist on polyurethane in anaerobic conditions. This makes the fungus a potential candidate for bioremediation projects involving large quantities of plastic.

Pestalotiopsis microspora was originally described from Argentina in 1880 by mycologist Carlo Luigi Spegazzini, who named it Pestalotia microspora.

In 1996 Julie C. Lee first isolated Torreyanic acid, a dimeric quinone, from P. microspora, and noted that the species is likely the cause of the decline of Florida torreya (Torreya taxifolia), an endangered species that is related to the paclitaxel-producing Taxus brevifolia.

This product comes in three different styles:

Agar Wedge

A single wedge of agar in an eppendorf tube, sealed with parafilm, inside a labelled plastic bag.

Agar Plate

A single agar plate wrapped in Parafilm, as well as one additional piece of parafilm for resealing.

Please note: this culture is very slow to colonize, as such, expect 4-6 weeks between receipt of order and shipment.

Liquid Culture Syringe

• 1x Syringe containing 10-12cc of a live mycelium culture
• 1x Sterile 18 Gauge Needle
• 1x Alcohol Wipe

If you any questions as to the density, sterility or other concerns about your order please email us directly at SouthwestShroomery@gmail.com.

Under no circumstances contact us about cultivation of active spores regardless of legality in your home location. Doing so will result in a cancellation of all open orders and denial of any future orders.

While all of our products are made in the most sterile conditions possible, sometimes contamination happens! Please contact us if you have any issues or concerns with the cleanliness of your culture.