Close to 100,000 mold varieties with scientific names and classifications exist, and as many as 300,000 have yet to be named. Despite these staggering numbers, some mold types are far more common than others, especially when it comes to household molds. A few specific varieties have the greatest frequency of growth in the average household.
Stachybotrys
Stachybotrys goes by many names. Varieties include Stachybotrys chartarum and Stachybotrys atra. Sometimes referred to as black mold, this black and green spore is synonymous with toxic mold. It emits mycotoxins that can contribute to allergies, respiratory problems, infections and possibly even cancer, according to the Environment Protection Agency. Although many molds produce mycotoxins, Stachybotrys produces a particularly poisonous mycotoxin called Satratoxin H.
Aspergillus
Aspergillus is another common household mold. Though not as dangerous as Stachybotrys, some strains do produce mycotoxins, making it potentially hazardous. Not all varieties are toxic, however. Aspergillus has over 100 recognized species, which vary greatly in color, consistency and molecular composition.
Alternaria
Alternaria can grow outdoors as well as indoors. It prefers cellulose (plant-based) materials like wood and certain fabrics (such as cotton). Alternaria may cause respiratory symptoms, hypersensitivity pneumonitis (lung inflammation) and allergic reactions.
Penicillium
Like alternaria, penicillium favors cellulose-based material like gypsum board, wood and fabric. It is considered an allergenic mold, meaning that it has the greatest health impact on people suffering from mold allergies. Some varieties, however, can produce mycotoxins.
Cladosporium
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recognize Cladosporium as one of the most common household molds (along with Penicillium, Aspergillus and Alternaria). In fact, Cladosporium is one of the two most common indoor molds in the U.S. (along with Alternaria), according to Advanced Mold Inspections. Although Cladosporium can appear black and green like black mold, it is not toxic. It contains allergens that may upset mold allergy sufferers.
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