Cladosporium is another mold that prefers the outdoors and is present in decaying plants. Usually, this mold will enter a home or building through open doors and windows. Porous, fibrous materials are the most likely places for Cladosporium to grow. Colonies may be found on wood products, carpets, wall and ceiling insulation, wallpaper, and other surfaces.
Cladosporium has a range of darker colors from deep olive to black. The texture of the mold is more fuzzy and powdery than wet and slimy.
Depending on the species of mold, and the person’s sensitivity, the following may be symptoms of exposure to Cladosporium:
- Respiratory symptoms: difficulty breathing; asthma-like symptoms; worsening of existing; wheezing; sneezing
- Skin rash: sores; fungus of the nails
- Congestion or runny, itchy nose
- Itchy throat
- Swollen/itchy/red eyes; watery eyes; crusted eyelids; keratitis
- Sinus Infection
The health risks associated with exposure to Cladosporium are fewer than many of the molds, and considerably less dangerous. Some of the risks are:
- pulmonary edema
- emphysema