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At what level is Stachybotrys dangerous?
50-200 spores – still very low levels; the toxic mold species Stachybotrys and Memnoniella are some of the species to be considered an issue at this level. 200-500 spores – the most common species (Penicillium/Aspergillus, Cladosporium and Curvularia) are typically not an issue and stay within the normal range.
How common is Stachybotrys mold?
Commonly found indoor molds include Penicillium, Cladosporium Aspergillus, Alternaria, and Fusarium. Stachybotrys, although notorious in name, is less common in water damaged buildings when compared to other molds. While it does not occur as often as other molds, it is not rare and should be addressed appropriately.
What is considered bad mold?
Stachybotrys Commonly referred to as “black mold,” stachybotrys is one of the most dangerous types of mold and can cause flu-like symptoms, diarrhea, headaches, memory loss and severe respiratory damage. As its nickname suggests, black mold is dark in color, although it can also be grey or dark green.
Can a black mold be produced by Stachybotrys?
Further, mycotoxins can be produced by other types of molds besides Stachybotrys and these molds are not always black. Therefore, it is important to not only clean the mold, but find and fix the source of the moisture which allowed the mold to grow.
Why are Stachybotrys harmful to the human body?
The primary cause of black mold is moisture—flooding, high humidity, leaks, condensation or some other form of moisture intrusion. Stachybotrys can produce toxins (called mycotoxins), which have been known to be hazardous to human health, especially in cases of long-term exposure. What is Stachybotrys mold?
How can you tell if you have Stachybotrys in Your House?
Because many mold species can be black in colour, the only way to know for sure if the mold you are dealing with is Stachybotrys is to have your house professionally tested. In most cases, a sample of the mold is obtained from a visible colony and taken to the laboratory for testing.
Which is the most dangerous type of mold?
While black mold (aka Stachybotrys chartarum) may be the most widely publicized type of mold, it is not the only mold that poses potential health risks. In fact, it is not even the only mold that is dark in color. All molds, regardless of type, should be removed from the home or work environment to ensure the safety of all occupants.