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Mold Facts
Molds are simple, microscopic organisms whose purpose in the ecosystem
is to break down dead materials. Molds can be found on plants, dry leaves,
and on
just about every other organic material.
Some molds are useful, such as those used to make antibiotics and cheese.
Some molds are known to be highly toxic when ingested, such as the types
that
invade grains and peanuts. Most of the mold found indoors comes from
outdoors.
Molds reproduce by very tiny particles called spores. The spores float in on
the air currents and find a suitable spot to grow. Spores are very light and
can
travel on air currents. If mold spores land on a suitable surface, they will begin
to grow.
Molds need three things to thrive- moisture, food and a surface to grow on.
Molds can be seen throughout the house, and can be found in most bathrooms.
Mold growth can often be seen in the form of discoloration, and can apear in
many colors-white, orange, pink, blue, green, black or brown. When molds
are
present in large quantities (called colonies) they can cause health problems
in some people.
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