COMMON FUNGAL GLOSSARY
Molds can be any of the following classifications:
ALLERGENIC:
Molds that cause and produce allergies and allergic reactions such as asthma attacks.
PATHOGENIC:
Molds can trigger illnesses in people already weakened by other causes.
TOXIGENIC:
Molds that produce toxic substances that can lead to dangerous or even deadly health conditions. This is sometimes referred to as “toxic mold.”
Alternaria
One of the most common molds. This genus contains about 40 to 50 different species only a few of which are commonly found indoors. Because it spreads quickly, it is important to remediate immediately before it overtakes a home. Indoors they can be found in house dust, carpet, damp shower surface is an around window frame and other areas where condensation occurs
H E A L T H R I S K:
Type I allergen (hay fever, asthma)
Type III (hypersensitivity pneumonitis)
Aspergillus
Aspergillus is a common mold found in American households. there are over 185 species of aspergillus mold, it can appear in many different colors. Aspergillus is an allergenic mold, but it is also capable of becoming more toxic depending on the species and the environment. It can lead to symptoms such as asthma attacks, lung infections and respiratory inflammation. Certain aspergillus mold species can produce aflatoxins, a known and deadly carcinogen.
H E A L T H R I S K:
Type I allergen (hay fever, asthma)
Type III (hypersensitivity pneumonitis)
Botrytis
Found in soil, stored, and transported fruit and vegetables. Plant pathogen and saprophyte on flowers, leaves, stems and fruit. Leaf rot on grapes, strawberries, lettuce cabbage and onions. May be found on indoor plants. “Grey mold” or “Noble Rot” on wine grapes but is often used in wine production.
H E A L T H R I S K:
Type I allergen (hay fever, asthma)
Type III (hypersensitivity pneumonitis)
Chaetomium
A common mold whose genus contains about 80 to 90 species. Chaetomium is a mold commonly found in water-damaged homes and buildings. Chaetomium mold causes health effects such as skin and nail infections. In some cases, it can produce mycotoxins that are especially dangerous in individuals with compromised immune systems.
H E A L T H R I S K:
Type I allergen (hay fever, asthma)
though not well studied
Cladosporium
An abundant mold worldwide and one of the most found in both indoor and outdoor samples. Found in soils, plant litter, leaf surfaces and decaying plants. Indoors on moist windowsills and dirty refrigerators. It often discolors interior paint and textiles stored in humid conditions.
H E A L T H R I S K:
Type I allergen (hay fever, asthma)
Type III (hypersensitivity pneumonitis)
A common an important allergen
Rhizopus
Closely related to mucous and inhabits the same niches. Frequently found in house dust, soil, fruit, nuts, compost, vegetable garbage and forgotten leftover food.
H E A L T H R I S K:
Type I allergen (hay fever, asthma)
Type III (hypersensitivity pneumonitis)
Stachybotrys
Stachybotrys is also known as the nefarious “black mold”. It is a toxigenic type of mold that can also cause allergic reactions. Stachybotrys is sometimes called “toxic mold” because it produces mycotoxins that cause severe health problems to those who have been exposed to it. Stachybotrys exposure symptoms include difficulty breathing, sinusitis, fatigue and even depression.
H E A L T H R I S K:
Type I (Dermatitis, cough, rhinitis, nose bleeds and burning sensations in the nose and mouth)
Penicillin
Penicillin is an allergenic form of mold. It is easily recognizable by its characteristic blue or green colored surface with a velvety texture. Penicillin mold is often found in water-damaged homes and buildings. It is found in materials such as carpets, wallpapers, ducting and even in mattresses. It spreads quickly from one area of the home to the next.