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Black Pin Mold
Rhizopus / Mucor spp.
Fast-growing contamination that starts white/grey then develops black spherical spore heads. Can overtake a grain jar in 24-48 hours. Common on bread and grain substrates.
Reference Images
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What It Looks Like
Fast-spreading fuzzy white/grey mold with tiny black pin-like dots (sporangia) on top, looks like a forest of black-headed pins
Recommended Action
Dispose immediately. Do not open indoors as spores spread easily. Bag and discard. Review sterilization and filtration protocols.
How to Identify
- 1Starts as white/grey fuzzy growth
- 2Develops black spherical heads on stalks
- 3Looks like tiny black pins or dots
- 4Spreads extremely fast (24-48 hours)
- 5Often appears on grain spawn
- 6Has a musty smell
Common Causes
- •Insufficient sterilization time
- •Contaminated grain or substrate
- •Poor air filtration
- •Dirty hands, gloves, or tools
- •Working in dusty or moldy environment
Prevention Tips
- ✓Proper sterilization (full pressure cooker cycle)
- ✓Use HEPA filter or laminar flow hood
- ✓Maintain sterile technique
- ✓Store materials in clean, dry areas
- ✓Ensure good air filtration
Learn more from external sources:
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