Because these two mold genus are often indistinguishable from each other they are always grouped together for identification purposes. There is around 200 species associated with these genus.
This mold often is associated with a musty odor. This mold can appear as a green fuzzy growth, but it also can appear as shades of blue, white, and several shades of green, or black.
Widespread, commonly found in dusty homes, water damaged buildings, gypsum board, wallpaper and wallpaper glue, decaying or old fabrics, chipboard, behind paint, leather, dried flowers or fruit, and certain foods.
Allergenic, Chronic Sinus & Ear Infections, Carcinogenic
Partial List: A.flavus; Aflatoxin B1 & B2, Orchratoxin
The CIA, The British Mycology Society, and United Nations has listed Aflatoxin that was harvested from Aspergillus as being tested and used in biological warfare.
This mold genus is often found in water damaged homes and buildings. There are around 80 species associated with this genus of mold.
There is a strong musty odor associated with this type of mold. This mold colonization has a cotton-like appearance and usually changes colors as the colony matures. A recent developing Chaetomium colony can have white appearance that will turn grey to olive brown as it matures, and finally it will take on a black appearance over time, if you can view the bottom of the mature mold growth it has a reddish tan or blackish brown appearance.
Widespread, very common on damp sheetrock & wallpaper.
Allergenic, Skin & Nail Infections
Partial List: Chaetomin, Chaetoglobosins
There is medical evidence being released that suggest that people who are exposed to Chaetomium can experience issues internally with heart, liver, and lungs.
This mold genus is one of the most common molds found in homes and has over 30 associated species. This mold genus is unique, growing even in a cold environment. (Growth can occur at 0°C) Due to this fact it is the most common mold found in HVAC systems in our Florida homes. (In our humble opinion)
This mold can appear very dark black or different shades of green. It also has a powder like appearance.
Widespread, very common in HVAC units, indoor surfaces, wallpaper, wallpaper glue, substrate, textiles, wood, and moist window sills.
Allergic reactions to the eyes, nose, throat, and skin.
Exposure to spores could causes skin rash, lesions, skin infections, and sinusitis.
There are toxins associated with these species, however they are not considered highly toxic to humans as others are.
Medical News Today reported in 2017 that Cladosporium is one of the most common molds found in homes. Again while it may trigger an allergy or asthma response it is not considered dangerous to humans. In rare cases, Cladosporium may lead to an infection.
This mold genus is found in water damaged homes and in homes that maintain high levels of humidity for weeks at a time. This mold is often associated with "Sick Building Syndrome" and "Damp Building-Related illnesses" (DBRI) also known or referred to as "Damp Building Related" syndrome.
The important thing to remember about this type of mold genus is, even though Stachybotrys is labeled the "Toxic Black Mold" it actually can appear dark green or black in color and has a slimy texture most of the time.
Wet building materials containing cellulose such as wallboard, wicker, straw baskets, wall paper, jute, etc.
Multiple health issues are related with prolonged exposure to the mycotoxins associated with this mold genus. Those individuals who are immune compromised may experience greater issues then those with a healthy immune system
Partial List: Trichothecenes, Stachybotryolactone.
The Trichothecene mycotoxin associated with this mold genus has been used in biological weapons. The only difference between the mycotoxins used in biological weapons and the mycotoxins found in homes infested with Stachybotrys is the concentration levels. The Rand Report, chapter four discusses the uses of toxins in
CDC, Daane Labs, EMLAB, CIA, NIH, Medical News Today, Rand Report Chapter Four