Eurotium chevalieri

Eurotium chevalieri is a xerophilic mold species and the teleomorph (sexual stage) of the fungus Aspergillus chevalieri. This fungus is recognized as a significant storage pathogen, capable of thriving in environments with low water activity where many other fungal species would fail to survive.

It primarily affects stored agricultural products, including cereal grains (wheat, corn, barley), oilseeds, nuts, and dried fruits. The fungus is frequently isolated from warehouses and silos, where it acts as a primary degrader of organic matter, leading to the rapid deterioration of stored food and feed resources.

The visible symptoms of infection include the formation of yellowish-green or brown fungal colonies on the seed coat. As the infection progresses, the grains may become clumped together, exhibit a musty or fermented odor, and show distinct discoloration, which often signifies the start of internal degradation of the grain endosperm.

The development and spread of Eurotium chevalieri are strictly correlated with environmental conditions in storage facilities. High relative humidity and temperature fluctuations are the main drivers of its growth. Its xerophilic nature allows it to colonize substrates with low moisture levels (water activity below 0.75), making it a persistent issue in long-term storage.

The damage caused by this mold is substantial, ranging from total loss of seed viability and germination potential to the contamination of grains with mycotoxins, which poses risks to human and animal health. Effective management involves rigorous monitoring of grain moisture levels, implementing advanced aeration systems in storage bins, and conducting thorough sanitation of storage infrastructure to eliminate fungal spores.