Types of Mold: Understanding Common Varieties found in SoCAl

Stachybotrys, known as black mold, is infamous for its toxicity. It thrives on materials like wood and paper.

Signs of black mold include a musty odor and dark greenish-black color. It produces mycotoxins, which can harm health.

Characteristics of black mold:

• Thrives in extremely damp conditions
• Found on wet cellulose materials
• Can produce harmful mycotoxins

Aspergillus is a mold found on various surfaces. It often grows on decaying organic material. This type of mold is allergenic and can trigger respiratory symptoms. It has a powdery texture and appears in many colors.

Common features of Aspergillus:

• Grows on food, dust, and fabrics
• Can cause allergic reactions
• Appears in different shades, often yellow or green

Cladosporium is a common mold in homes, known for its ability to thrive in both warm and cold environments. It often appears on fabrics, carpets, and wood. While usually not toxic, it can cause allergic reactions. It is easily recognizable by its suede-like texture.

Key attributes of Cladosporium:

• Dark green or black color
• Found on fabrics, carpets, wood
• Causes allergies and asthma

Penicillium is a fast-growing mold, often blue or green. It is found on materials damaged by water.

This mold type can trigger allergic reactions and is known for causing musty odors.

Penicillium characteristics:

• Rapid growth on damp materials
• Blue or green coloration
• Found in water-damaged areas

Alternaria is a widespread mold that thrives outdoors and indoors. It appears as dark, velvety spots on walls and textiles.It frequently causes allergies and asthma symptoms in sensitive individuals.

Identifying features of Alternaria:

• Spreads in dark, damp places
• Often black or brown
• Common allergy trigger

Fusarium is mostly seen in gardens but can invade homes. It loves wet areas and can grow on damp walls and flooring. This mold type can be a health threat, especially to those with respiratory issues.

Recognizable traits of Fusarium:

• Pink, white, or reddish color
• Found in plants, soil, and wet areas
• Potential health hazard

Chaetomium is a mold typically found in damp, dark environments. It often appears in water-damaged homes.Visible as cotton-like growth, it can lead to structural damage and produce a musty smell.

Chaetomium features:

• Cotton-like texture
• Common after water damage
• Produces a musty odor

Aureobasidium thrives on surfaces like window frames and caulking. Initially pink, it turns dark over time.Though generally not harmful, it can cause allergic responses.

Key traits of Aureobasidium:

• Grows on wood and painted surfaces
• Changes from pink to black
• May cause skin irritation