7 Interesting Facts About Mould You Probably Didn’t Know
- October 26, 2024
- Posted by: Chris Croft
- Category: Mould Assessment
Mould might not be a glamorous topic, but it has some surprising characteristics that make it more than just an unwelcome guest in your home. From its ancient origins to its ability to thrive in the most unexpected places, here are some fascinating facts about mould that will change the way you think about this common household problem.
Mould Has Been Around for Over a Billion Years!
Mould is not a new problem – it’s ancient! Fungi, including mould, have been on Earth for over a billion years, long before humans ever walked the planet. This means mould is a true survivor, able to adapt to many different environments, which is why it can be so persistent in homes, offices, and outdoor spaces.
Mould Can Survive Extreme Conditions
Think mould only thrives in damp basements? Think again! While mould loves moisture, it’s surprisingly tough and can survive in a range of extreme conditions. Some species of mould can grow in temperatures as low as 2°C (around 35°F) or as high as 60°C (140°F). Mould spores can also survive dry conditions for long periods, waiting for the right conditions to start growing again.
There Are Thousands of Mould Species
When people talk about “mould,” they are actually referring to thousands of different species. Scientists estimate that there are over 100,000 species of mould, with some experts even suggesting there could be more than 300,000! Not all moulds are harmful – in fact, some are used in the production of food and medicine, like Penicillium, which gave us the antibiotic penicillin.
Mould Can Glow in the Dark!
Some types of mould, such as species of Mycena, have an eerie ability to glow in the dark. This phenomenon is called bioluminescence, and while it’s most commonly seen in some species of fungi in forests, it’s a reminder of the mysterious world of mould. Don’t expect the mould in your home to start glowing, though – bioluminescent moulds are mostly found in nature.
Your Home Can Produce Over a Billion Mould Spores Every Day
Mould spores are microscopic and can float through the air, landing on surfaces and waiting for moisture to help them grow. It’s estimated that an average home can produce more than a billion mould spores every day, especially if it has water damage or areas with high humidity. That’s why even small amounts of moisture can lead to big mould problems over time.
Mould Was Part of the Chernobyl Solution
Did you know that some mould species have been used in extreme environments for cleanup purposes? In 1991, scientists discovered a species of mould growing on the walls of the Chernobyl nuclear reactor. This specific mould, called Cladosporium sphaerospermum, was found to thrive in radioactive environments and is even being studied for its potential in cleaning up radiation.
Mould Can Grow on Just About Anything
As long as there’s moisture, oxygen, and an organic material (such as wood, drywall, or paper), mould can grow just about anywhere. It can grow on walls, ceilings, furniture, clothes, and even in unexpected places like air conditioners or the rubber seals on refrigerators. Mould doesn’t discriminate when it comes to where it sets up camp, which is why keeping your home dry is so important.
Conclusion
Mould is more than just a household nuisance – it’s a fascinating and resilient organism with a long history and a surprising set of abilities. However, while some moulds are harmless, many can cause health issues and damage to your home. If you suspect mould in your home, it’s important to take action before it spreads.
Need help with mould testing? Contact IES Consulting Group to schedule an assessment and keep your home in Windsor-Essex County and Chatham-Kent safe and mould-free.
