Types of Molds

Different types of mold are present al the time around us and in the air we breathe. In low levels, molds and mold spores are generally harmless, but if their levels increase they can affect people; specially people with suppressed immune systems, allergies, asthma or other respiratory conditions. Mold performs the natural function of breaking down biological materials, digesting the materials they are found on. As a living organism, it gives off gaseous waste products, some that can be harmful to humans. These are referred to as mycotoxins.

There are over 100,000 mold species, some more harmful than others. While different mold species can have varying health effects, it is import to remember that any excessive mold growth should be remediated, regardless of the species. Excessive mold growth can lead to increased allergies, toxicity and structural problems in buildings. The most common species of molds include Stachybotrys, Aspergillus, Cladosporium and Penicillium.

The most commonly discussed is Stachybotrys. It is commonly referred to as toxic black mold. Stachybotrys mold thrives on water damaged, cellulose rich materials in building such as sheet rock, paper, ceiling tiles, insulation backing, wallpaper, etc. Stachybotrys is usually black and slimy in appearance. This form of mold can produce toxins (mycotoxins) that are very harmful to humans and animals and are known for causing cancer, asthma and headaches. Stachybotrys is usually found in buildings where water damage has gone unnoticed for extended period of time. Exposure to these toxins can be through inhalation, ingestion and dermal exposure.

Aspergillus is the most common genus of fungi found in our environment, with more than 160 different aspergillus mold species. It is most commonly found on cellulose rich materials and wood, dirty air conditioning units or damp or flood damaged housing. Only a few of the aspergillus molds can cause illness in humans and animals. Most people are naturally immune and do not develop diseases caused by Aspergillus. However, when disease does occur, it can range from an allergy type illness to life threatening infections.

Cladosporium molds are dark green to black in color with a velvety to powdery texture. Cladosporium molds are most commonly found on decaying plants, woody plants, food, straw, soil, paint, textiles to name a few. These fungi can cause various symptoms including skin lesions, keratitis, nail fungus, sinusitis, asthma and pulmonary infections. The airborne spores of Cladosporium species are significant allergens and in large amounts can severely affect asthmatics and people with respiratory diseases. Prolonged exposure may weaken the immune system. Cladosporium species produce no major mycotoxins of concern, but do produce volatile organic compounds associated with moldy odors.

Penicillium mold is commonly found in soil, food, cellulose, grains, paint, carpet, wallpaper, fiberglass duct insulation and decaying vegetation. Penicillium is the source of several antibiotics, most significantly penicillin. Pencillium mold can cause infection in humans, although rare. Colonies of Pencillium are rapid growing, flat, filamentous and velvety, wooly or cottony in texture. They are initially white and become blue green, gray green, olive gray, yellow or pinkish in time.

If you suspect you have a mold issue, please contact the D. H. Griffin Companies office nearest you to discuss.