Molds include all species of microscopic fungi that grow in the form of multicellular filaments, called hyphae. There are many species of molds. In unaired places, such as basements, they can produce a strong musty odor. Learn more about mold at www.epa.gov/mold.

Toxic black mold or black mold is a name commonly used for Stachybotrys chartarum. It is one of the most infamous toxic molds because it can grow in houses and is extremely dangerous to humans. Stachybotrys is known as a toxic mold because it produces toxins called mycotoxins.

This mold may cause human disease through direct irritation, type 1 hypersensitivity or the production of toxins. A variety of respiratory, dermatological, eye and constitutional symptoms have been associated with heavy and prolonged exposure to S chartarum.

The short answer for most healthy people is no, black mold won’t kill you and is unlikely to make you sick. However, black mold can make the following groups sick: very young people.

Mold, also spelled mould, in biology, a conspicuous mass of mycelium (masses of vegetative filaments, or hyphae) and fruiting structures produced by various fungi (kingdom Fungi). Fungi of the genera Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Rhizopus form mold and are associated with food spoilage and plant diseases.

The topic of mold is usually associated with the well-known species of mold that is referred to as “black mold”. Black mold is a mold species that has a dark green or black appearance, hints the name associated with this mold, however, the most common species of this mold is actually known as Stachybotrys Chartarum.

Differences Between Mold and Mildew Mold tends to have a higher profile and can even become fuzzy, while mildew is always flat. Mold exhibits darker colors such as deep green and black; mildew may begin as white, then turn brown or gray. Mildew converts to a white, powdery substance; mold never does.

If the black mold growth in your home is small enough for you to treat alone, a simple mixture of bleach and water can help. Add one cup of bleach to one gallon of water and apply it to the moldy spots. Apply the cleaner to the mold spot and scrub away the growth. Be sure to dry the area thoroughly when you’re done.

For a natural solution for getting rid of black mold, combine one part baking soda with five parts distilled white vinegar and five parts water in a spray bottle. Alternatively, you can use a chemical-based mold and mildew remover, all-purpose cleaners, bleach or dish soap.

Most mold is not toxic, but large areas of black mold could be toxic and should be removed by a trained professional. Toxic mold is usually greenish black in color and is a major health risk.

When you find black mold near a sink, the problem may be the result of a leak in the plumbing since black mold requires large amounts of moisture in order to grow. Inspect the area to find the cause of the water damage, such as a leaky pipe beneath the sink, a dysfunctional faucet or a roof leak.

Toxic mold can also have a grayish, soot-like texture, or a slimy, wet surface. In some cases, you may even notice furry orange or brown spots. If you find mold with any of these qualities in your home, don’t get too close, and call a professional right away.

The only possible link is this: Mold can cause pulmonary fibrosis (PF), which is scarring in your lungs. If you have PF for a long time, it can make you more likely to get lung cancer.

A chest X-ray or computerized tomography (CT) scan — a type of X-ray that produces more-detailed images than conventional X-rays do — can usually reveal a fungal mass (aspergilloma), as well as characteristic signs of invasive aspergillosis and allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis.

Look in your basement or crawlspace for any standing water or dampness. If you find traces of mold or dampness, you need to scrub the area with a mixture of bleach and water. Then, place fans in the area to dry the dampness. It can take 24 to 48 hours to properly ventilate and dry the area.

Fungal lung infection symptoms A feeling of breathlessness. Coughing up sputum or, in severe cases, blood. A general feeling of weakness. Sometimes the infection can cause achy joints.