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Black Mold (Aspergillus)

Aspergillus niger

Dangerous mold that produces harmful spores. Health hazard - do not breathe spores. Dispose immediately.

Reference Images

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What It Looks Like

Black spots or patches, often powdery, can start as white/yellow before darkening

Recommended Action

HEALTH HAZARD. Wear N95 mask. Do not open indoors. Bag entire container and dispose in outdoor trash. Sanitize area thoroughly.

How to Identify
  • 1Black color is distinctive
  • 2Often powdery texture
  • 3May start white or yellow first
  • 4Circular colony pattern
  • 5Spreads from a central point
Common Causes
  • •Contaminated substrate or spawn
  • •Poor sterilization
  • •Exposure to contaminated air
  • •Wet, warm conditions
Prevention Tips
  • ✓Proper sterilization protocols
  • ✓HEPA filtration in grow space
  • ✓Quality spawn from clean source
  • ✓Do not over-wet substrate

Learn more from external sources:

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