Molds Fungi

Molds are a large group of eukaryotic fungi, with some estimated 300,000 species. They play an important role in nature, breaking down organic matter and recycling nutrients. Molds are also beneficial to humans in the industrial production of food, pharmaceuticals, and bioplastics. Molds can also cause diseases in humans, animals, and plants, and release allergens, irritants, and asthma-triggering particles into the air. For this reason, it is important to understand the growth and spread of molds in order to prevent health risks and damage to property.