Mold Science

Mucor and related mucormycetes cause mucormycosis — a rapidly invasive, often fatal fungal infection in immunocompromised patients. Learn the biology, clinical forms, why it surged during COVID-19, and how it differs from aspergillosis.

Fusarium is a genus with wide-ranging significance — causing crop diseases, producing regulated mycotoxins in grain, and causing life-threatening infections in immunocompromised patients. Learn its biology, health risks, and food safety implications.

Alternaria alternata is the dominant outdoor allergenic mold in temperate regions and a leading trigger of severe asthma. Learn its seasonal patterns, why it causes such serious respiratory disease, and how sensitized patients can reduce exposure.

Stachybotrys chartarum — the notorious "toxic black mold" — requires sustained wet conditions, grows only on cellulosic materials, and does not always produce mycotoxins. This profile separates the evidence from the panic.

Aspergillus is one of the most ecologically and medically important fungal genera, with over 300 species. This guide covers its taxonomy, morphology, key species including A. fumigatus and A. flavus, and its significance in both indoor environments and clinical medicine.

Cladosporium is the most frequently detected mold genus in indoor and outdoor air globally, with over 700 described species. This guide covers its morphology, seasonal ecology, moisture requirements, and role as a leading cause of mold-related allergic sensitization and asthma.

Penicillium is the genus behind penicillin, blue cheese, and one of the most common indoor molds worldwide. This guide covers its taxonomy, key species, role in medicine and food production, mycotoxin risk, and significance as an indoor air quality concern.