30+ species. Ubiquitous. These types of mold can be found in temperate or subtropical areas. Dry spore distributed by wind and rain.
Where does it grow outside?
Soil, stored and transported fruit and vegetables. Plant pathogen and saprophyte on flowers, leaves, stems, fruit. Leaf rot on grapes, strawberries, lettuce, cabbage, onions.
Where does it grow inside?
Often found growing on indoor plants.
Is this "black mold"? The term black mold (also "toxic black mold") is not scientific but is widely used by the media to usually reference Stachybotrys molds.
Is it a potential allergen?
Some of people may experience hay fever, asthma or Winegrower’s lung.
Does it present any unique human risks? (as pathogen, opportunist or contaminant)* These molds can lead to rare cases of keratomycosis.
Other comments:
A type of mold referred to some as “grey rot” is know by winegrowers as “noble rot”.
*Other types of disease not listed in this description may also result from exposure.
*Indicates potential toxin production by given species of this genus. Not all toxins are produced by all species and the extent is highly dependent on environmental conditions. List may not be all inclusive due to new discoveries in research.