Top 10 Most Harmful Molds

The Top Ten
Stachybotrys

Commonly known as black mold, this type is notorious for invading household walls and grows in moist areas. The toxin it releases is highly toxic to both animals and humans, damaging multiple bodily functions, especially the respiratory system. It mostly triggers typical allergy symptoms, which can be severe for individuals with weakened immune systems. Prolonged exposure can damage the brain, causing confusion, depression, insomnia, and other severe symptoms that could potentially lead to death.

Chaetomium

Typically found in humid areas, soil, and as an airborne type of mold, Chaetomium grows quickly, especially in unoccupied areas with the right conditions. It can cause severe damage to structures. The mold is white-green with a cottony texture. The toxin produced by this mold is dangerous to humans and animals. In animals, it can damage multiple vital functions when consumed, causing various adverse health effects. In humans, it causes typical allergic reactions like coughing and wheezing. In severe cases, it may cause neurological and internal health problems if not treated promptly.

Aspergillus

Commonly used in medicines, Aspergillus is otherwise a harmful mold. This airborne mold is found in various objects, especially fruits and vegetables, and grows in moist environments. It is one of the most common molds found worldwide. Toxins released by this mold can be very toxic to humans, depending on the severity and length of exposure, and can result in carcinogenic complications if left untreated. In some cases, exposure to this mold can invade vital organs, leading to death.

Alternaria

Alternaria is very common and hazardous. This airborne mold grows in moist conditions, typically on soil and trees. It is often found outside but can also be inside various structures, in food, and on other everyday objects. It is classified as an allergen, causing multiple common health effects that can progress into more severe health problems with prolonged exposure.

Fusarium

Found in soil, crops, and various plants, typically in moist conditions, Fusarium is not often found in households. It is known for causing agricultural damage, especially in the US, costing millions. Fortunately, most species of this mold are harmless to humans. However, some are toxic. Once inhaled, it mostly triggers mild to moderate allergy symptoms. In severe cases, this mold and its toxins can impact human health and animals severely, especially those with pre-existing conditions. Numerous diseases worldwide are associated with Fusarium.

Bipolaris

This well-recognized mold grows rapidly, maturing within less than a week. It is typically found on various plants and soil, and it can grow in both dry and damp environments. The mold is mostly brown and is known for causing agricultural damage. Inhalation of this mold causes allergy symptoms and certain health complications, invading various body functions, including the brain.

Penicillium

This mold type is responsible for creating various medicines and antibiotics and is used in cheese production. While it saves lives, it can also harm humans. Found globally in rotting food, grains, paint, wallpapers, air, and almost everywhere in moist environments, it is classified as an allergen. It causes typical allergy and asthma effects for sensitive individuals and is hazardous when consumed in moldy food. Inhalation of its spores can result in shortness of breath, sneezing, coughing, and an irritated nose. Some species produce toxins with potentially harmful effects. Indeed a useful type of mold, but also a harmful one.

Trichoderma

Most commonly found in wood and other cellulose materials, Trichoderma frequently infects houses. The mold is mostly white. Human contact with this mold can cause negative health effects similar to those of black mold. Some species of Trichoderma are as toxic as black mold and Fusarium. It is also one of the most difficult molds to remove, requiring proper and consistent care.

Ulocladium

This potentially hazardous mold grows faster than some other molds. It is typically brown but can also be black, growing in very wet, humid areas. It is found in soil, wood, and the atmosphere, usually with a cottony texture. Exposure to this mold can cause adverse allergic reactions, including coughing, asthma, wheezing, and sneezing, with symptoms ranging from moderate to severe. It can potentially cause death, especially in those with other health conditions. In wooden households and other buildings, it causes severe damage if not immediately disinfected.

Geotrichum

This is considered a very common mold type found globally in water, soil, dairy, and the atmosphere. It is also found in our bodies, typically in flora microbiomes. The mold is white and grows rapidly, accelerating in moist areas. It eventually produces spores that transfer and germinate in multiple areas if not controlled. This is hazardous to structures, especially those made of wood. Spores of this mold are not visible and can reside in your home for a long period, doing consistent damage and making them extremely difficult to control. Inhalation typically results in common allergy symptoms and can cause critical health effects for individuals with weakened immune systems or severe health conditions.

The Contenders
Cladosporium
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