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Molds are microscopic fungi-related to mushrooms-but without stems,
roots or leaves. Their spores float in the air like pollen, and
are present throughout the year in many states. Unlike pollens,
molds do not have a specific season, but are affected by weather
conditions such as wind, rain or temperature. Outdoor mold spores
begin to appear after a spring thaw and reach their peak in July
in warmer states and October in the colder states. Molds can be
found all year long outdoors in the South and on the West coast.
Common airborne molds include alternaria, cladosporium and aspergillus.
Molds are present in almost every possible habitat. Outdoors, they
can be found in soil, vegetation and rotting wood. Molds can also
be found indoors in attics, basements, bathrooms, refrigerators
and other food storage areas, garbage containers, carpets and upholstery.
Information about individual mold species may be found here.
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