Reference

Mold species - a homeowner's encyclopedia.

The 14 species we encounter most often in Eastern Idaho & Western Wyoming. What each one is, where it grows, the health risk, and when to test.

Mold lifecycle illustration (4 stages: spore -> hyphae -> colony -> release) (ill2)

Acremonium (Acremonium spp.) - what to know

Slower-growing mold in damp areas - humidifiers, coils, drain pans. Rare infections in immunocompromised individuals.

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Alternaria (Alternaria spp.) - what to know

Common in damp areas like showers, windows, and basements. Strong allergen.

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Ascospores (Ascomycetes (group)) - what to know

Spores from a large group of molds. Indicates mold activity and potential hidden growth. Common allergen.

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Aspergillus (Aspergillus spp.) - what to know

Very common indoor mold - fast-spreading, often in HVAC systems. Some species produce mycotoxins.

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Bipolaris / Drechslera group (Bipolaris / Drechslera spp.) - what to know

Outdoor molds that grow indoors with moisture. Allergies, sinus issues, respiratory irritation.

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Chaetomium (Chaetomium spp.) - what to know

Found in water-damaged drywall and wood. Breaks down cellulose. Signals prolonged water damage.

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Cladosporium (Cladosporium spp.) - what to know

Common outdoor + indoor mold. Usually dark green or black. Spreads through air circulation.

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Curvularia (Curvularia spp.) - what to know

Soil and plant-related, but grows indoors with moisture. Allergic reactions and respiratory symptoms.

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Fusarium (Fusarium spp.) - what to know

Thrives in wet conditions, even at low temperatures. Spreads quickly in water-damaged materials.

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Mucor (Mucor spp.) - what to know

Fast-growing in high-moisture environments. Often signals severe moisture issues.

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Nigrospora (Nigrospora spp.) - what to know

Typically outdoor. Less aggressive but can contribute to overall contamination.

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Penicillium (Penicillium spp.) - what to know

Common allergen. Fast-growing on water-damaged materials and contents.

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Stachybotrys (black mold) (Stachybotrys chartarum) - what to know

The infamous 'black mold' - slimy, dark, and a clear sign of long-term water damage. Produces mycotoxins.

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Torula (Torula spp.) - what to know

Dark mold on damp wood and building materials. Signals moisture intrusion.

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Spotted one in your home?

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A real lab-verified test tells you which species, how much, and whether it's worth remediating. Plain-English results in 2-3 business days.

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