Which of the following does mold NOT need to grow?
- A food sources such as leaves, wood, paper, or dirt
- A source of moisture
- A place to grow
- Complete darkness
- The correct temperature
The correct answer is D - Mold does not need complete darkness to grow. However, it does need food source, moisture, a place to grow and the right temperature.
Mold spores may be found lying dormant on almost every surface in a building. Unless large numbers of spores become airborne, there is usually little problem. However, when mold spores are on a surface with an appropriate moisture content, nutrients, and temperature, the spores will germinate and mold will grow.
Most molds must get their food from the environment, living and feeding on dead organic matter. Outdoors, molds are very important in decomposing organic materials and recycling nutrients. Indoors, many building components and contents contain materials that are excellent food sources for mold, such as wallpaper glue, some paints, greases, paper, textiles, and wood products. Indoor dusts may contain fibers, dead skin cells, and other organic matter that can serve as a food source for mold when adequate moisture is available.
Temperature also affects mold growth. Different types of mold have minimum, optimum and maximum temperature ranges for growth. Many fungi grow well at temperatures between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, which are also ideal temperatures for human comfort. In addition, as mentioned above, temperature gradients often produce the moisture needed for mold growth.
