Mold

Molds, or moulds, are various fungi that cover surfaces as fluffy mycelia and usually produce masses of asexual, or sometimes sexual, spores. The molds are not an actual taxonomic or phylogenetic grouping – they can be found in the divisions Zygomycota, Deuteromycota and Ascomycota.

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The presence of mold usually implies decay, although some molds are used deliberately; for example in cheese making, and for the production of antibiotics derived from the organisms' natural defenses against bacteria.

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The numerous spores released by mold do not cause direct harm in humans, but the hyphae grown from those spores can attach to cells along the respiratory tract and cause problems in those with weak immunity.

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Mold is often a problem in damp areas such as basements and bathrooms, and after floods. It can be seen on surfaces of walls, but also grows deep within, and produces a distinctive dusty, slightly pungent smell. It grows on food in closed containers, even in refrigerators.

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The mold Neurospora crassa is commonly used as a model organism in scientific experiments.

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Fungi: REDIRECT Fungus...

Mycelia: REDIRECT Mycelium...

Asexual: REDIRECT Asexuality...

Mold related Images and Photos (experimental)

Mold Me Make Me 2012 Wall Calendar	YUMBot Cupcake Mold	Shape, Model And Mold Clay Set	Betty Boop Blow Mold Ornaments
Zombie Brain Gelatin Mold	Aspergillus Niger Mold Fruiting Bodies (Conidiophores or Sporangia) and Hyphae	A Slime Mold Sporangia of the Genus Lamproderma on Dead Wood	Cakewich Sandwich-Style Cake Mold
Betty Boop 3 3/4-Inch Blow Mold Ornament	Hot Wheels Car Maker My Design Mold Pack Assortment Case	Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer Blow Mold Ornaments Set	Fruiting Structures or Sporangia of a Slime Mold Hemitrichia Stipitata Myxomycota North America