Stachybotrys

What it means

Stachybotrys chartarum is the mold most people mean when they say “black mold.” CDC describes it as a greenish-black mold that can grow on materials high in cellulose, such as fiberboard, gypsum board and paper, when they get wet. Many other molds can also look dark, so color alone does not identify it.

CDC’s position is simple: “All molds should be treated the same with respect to potential health risks and removal.” CDC also says no test exists that proves an association between Stachybotrys and particular health symptoms. A link to a rare lung bleeding condition in infants was once reported, but CDC says that link has not been proven.

Why it matters to your health and your home

Finding Stachybotrys does not mean your home is uniquely dangerous, and it does not change the cleanup plan. The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology says evidence does not support “toxic mold syndrome.” What matters is the size of the growth, what it is growing on, and fixing the water source. Be wary of any company that uses the word “toxic” to raise the price or push expensive species testing. CDC says identifying the specific type of mold is not necessary. Our page on black mold explains what the evidence does and does not show.