Outside, this species of mould grows on rotting wood or in the ground, where it sometimes attacks other fungi. In buildings, it grows at relatively high room temperatures and on wallpaper or woodwork damaged by high humidity levels. In connection with water damage, it grows rapidly and even very few spores found in a dust sample indicate moisture d [..]

Rhizopus stolonifer is a fast-growing mould that thrives on bread and fruit at high humidity levels and temperatures. Large quantities found in dust samples can indicate insulation damage on the inside or a leaky hot-water pipe.

is found in outdoor environments, but grows on wallpaper, drywalls, painted surfaces and woodwork as well, where it requires less moisture than most moulds. See also: Cladosp. clado.

spores are the most abundant type of all fungal spores found outdoors. During peak seasons in summer and autumn, they are potential allergens. Damp buildings may contain Cladosporium herbarum infestations on wallpaper and woodwork. See also: Cladosp. clado.

This fast-growing species of fungus requires high humidity levels and is often found on building materials containing cellulose, e.g. wallpaper and woodwork. With a limited presence in outdoor environments, even a small amount of spores in a dust sample is a strong indicator of mould infestation. Chaetomium globosum produces mycotoxins which are be [..]

is one of the least demanding species of fungus in terms of growth conditions and therefore it is widespread. Endemic from the Arctic to the Middle East, this type of mould is common in damp buildings and needs only a slight increase in humidity to thrive. Its spores are also common in small quantities in dry buildings, and in substantial quantitie [..]

is a common type of fungus found outdoors as well as indoors. It produces black colonies which are visible on vegetables and fruit, but it can grow in soil and on construction materials. It thrives at high temperatures and lower humidity levels than other moulds, and as such can grow in areas with minor moisture damage. Aspergillus niger is a poten [..]

thrives at relatively high temperatures, particularly in damp, heated buildings. As this species is capable of attacking lung tissue (aspergillosis), it is one of the few species of mould that are potentially pathogenic for people with immune deficiencies, e.g. organ transplant and AIDS patients. The fungus also produces several mycotoxins, which c [..]

Acremonium strictum is found in soil and withered vegetation. Consequently, it is also found in small quantities indoors. If a significant quantity of spores is found in the dust sample, this suggests indoor growth, typically on concrete structures, drywalls, moist wallpaper or woodwork.