Our Fungal Library lists the most dangerous types of mold and Fungal species. Knowlege is power! Knowing the type of fungal species you are dealing with will help you decide what steps to take next.
Chaetomium
Chaetomium is a genus of molds. It is a dark-walled fungus normally found in soil, air, and plant debris. Chaetomium is a contaminant and a causative agent of infections in humans. A few cases of fatal deep infections due to Chaetomium atrobrunneum have been reported in the immune-compromised host. Other clinical syndromes include brain abscess, peritonitis, and onychomycosis. Chaetomium infections in humans can be avoided by proper hygiene habits. A little known fact is that showering with soap after working out in a community gymnasium will help reduce the chance for infection.
Smuts
Smuts is a member of the Basidiomycetes family and has two spore types: teliospores (dry, powdery stage) and basidiospores (yeast stage). Smuts do not usually grow indoors. They are parasitic plant pathogens that require a living host for the completion of their life cycle. There are no reports of human infection by the plant parasitic forms. The identification of smuts on a mold analysis report often indicates a landscaping issue at the foundation of the building.
Rusts
Many of these species are plant parasites. Some are superficially similar to the smuts, although their relation to each other is not clear. They most commonly reproduce via asexual spore production. Their spores are airborne and can travel great distances. They mostly cause foliar infections. The group received its common name from the fact that some species have a reddish spore stage which resembles the corrosion process known as rust.
