FUNGI FRIDAY – Revisiting Stachybotrys

Stachybotrys (“Black Mold”): What Homeowners Should Know When people hear the term “black mold,” they are usually referring to Stachybotrys chartarum — a dark-colored mold that can grow indoors when moisture problems are left unresolved. While it’s one of the most recognized molds online and in the media, there is also a lot of misinformation…

Fungi Friday – Aspergillus pt. 2

Understanding Aspergillus on Mold Testing Reports If you’ve received a mold report and see Aspergillus listed, you’re not alone—this is one of the most commonly identified genera in indoor air and surface samples. What is Aspergillus? Aspergillus is a group of molds made up of hundreds of species found both indoors and outdoors. It naturally…

Understanding Pithomyces on Mold Lab Reports

Understanding Pithomyces on Mold Lab Reports What Is Pithomyces? Pithomyces is a type of mold commonly found outdoors, particularly in soil, decaying plant material, and grasses. It thrives in warm, humid environments—making it especially common in regions like Florida. On mold lab reports, Pithomyces is typically identified through air samples or surface samples. While it’s…

What Are Basidiospores on a Mold Report?

Understanding Basidiospores on Mold Lab Reports If you’ve ever reviewed a mold air test report, you may have noticed the term “basidiospores” listed among the results. For many homeowners, this can raise questions—especially when the name doesn’t sound familiar. So what exactly are basidiospores, and should you be concerned? What Are Basidiospores? Basidiospores are a…

Myxomycetes: The Unusual Organisms Sometimes Found During Mold Inspections

Myxomycetes: The Unusual Organisms Sometimes Found During Mold Inspections When performing indoor air quality or mold assessments, clients occasionally ask about unusual growths they notice on damp surfaces. One group of organisms that sometimes raises questions is myxomycetes, often referred to as slime molds. Despite the name, myxomycetes are not actually true molds or fungi.…

Fungi Friday – Cladosporium

Fungi Friday – Cladosporium What Is Cladosporium? A Common Indoor & Outdoor Mold Explained Cladosporium is one of the most frequently identified molds in both outdoor air and indoor environments. It’s considered a background mold, meaning it naturally exists in the environment — but elevated indoor levels can signal a moisture problem that needs attention.…