Need to know about mold

3/12/2019 (Permalink)

Mold behind paneling in basement.

-Mold has existed since ancient times.

-The human species has always lived in the presence of mold.

-There are over 100,000+ species of mold identified. The unique flavor of bleu cheese is produced by mold.

-We are constantly exposed to thousands of different types of fungi in our everyday lives. Certain types of fungi tend to exist naturally in soils, plants, fruits and textiles.

-Exposure to these fungi in naturally occurring doses is generally not harmful to health.

-While the types and concentrations of fungi existing in the environment vary from one geographic region to another, the most common types are as follows: Aspergillus (most common), alternaria, bipolaris, Chaetomium, fusarium, penicillin, and paecilomyes.

Mold Needs the Right Environment to Grow

• Water, moisture or high humidity
• Food (any organic substance)
• The right temperature (generally 68*F-86*F, but some can grow in 30*F or colder)
• Lack of ventilation
• Mold presents greater challenges to young children, the elderly and other immune-suppressed people.
• Some molds can produce toxins if the environment conditions are right.