Mold is a type of fungus that can be found anywhere both indoors and out. Not all molds are bad, with some being beneficial for the environment or for eating. However, mold is mostly known for having adverse health effects and deteriorating structure but must have distinct conditions in order to do so. In order to thrive, mold requires both a water source and a humid environment. These factors allow mold to develop into potentially harmful growths that can be hidden from main sight for periods of time before being found, which is what makes them so potentially dangerous. While there are thousands of species of mold and they can range in all different textures and colors, there are some that are more commonly found.
Alternaria
Alternaria is a popular type of fungus known for causing allergic effects. The spores can appear between the start of spring to the end of fall, in warm regions. The dry seasons encourages the spores to accumulate in large masses, while wind creates an ideal platform for them to become airborne. Alternaria molds have 40 to 50 types of species that develop from the soil, indoor air, plants, and food. Alternaria alternata, which is one of the species, has proven to thrive in various organic substances in damp surfaces. Such include textiles, canvas, electric cables, and many others. Health issues stemming from the Alternata molds include bronchial asthma. The effect of Alternaria can cause severe or incurable asthma. According to recent studies, 70% of patients suffering from mold allergies test positive for Alternaria. Research has also indicated that the effect may resemble dust mites infestation.
Acremonium
Acremonium is a fungal type of mold, with the ability to spread widely. There are about 100 species of its family, where most of them exist as saprophytes. It mostly thrives in dead plant remains and soil. Some of its species are parasites, which are either animals or plants and can cause severe infections. Experts use some of the species to create pharmaceuticals.
Bipolaris
Bipolaris is one of the most popular molds that exist on the soil in the open air, plants, and grass. It’s family consists of 20 species, which cause a mycotoxin called sterigmatocystin. Animals and humans can suffer severe health effects from the substance. Such include liver dysfunction, fever, kidney damage, and asthma, among several others.
If you find mold in your home or business, the most important thing to do is get it removed as soon as possible. While it may seem that mold is something that can be handled on your own, it is highly recommended to use a professional mold remediation company to handle the process. There are many intricacies involved with mold remediation and it usually involves some form of water damage remediation as well, compounding the situation. Since mold can be a toxic substance, a professional mold remediation company also possesses the correct experience and equipment to restore the property back safely.
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