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Blue-Green Mold (Penicillium)

Penicillium spp.

Common environmental mold. Distinctive blue-green color. Aggressive colonizer once established.

Reference Images

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What It Looks Like

Blue-green fuzzy colonies, often in circular patterns, powdery spores

Recommended Action

Dispose of contaminated material. Do not open indoors. Bag and trash. Review sterile technique and spawn source.

How to Identify
  • 1Blue-green color (vs green of trich)
  • 2Fuzzy/velvety texture
  • 3Circular colony growth pattern
  • 4Powdery spores when disturbed
  • 5Musty cheese-like smell
Common Causes
  • Airborne spores from environment
  • Contaminated substrate
  • Poor sterile technique
  • Old or improperly stored spawn
Prevention Tips
  • Work in clean environment
  • HEPA filtration
  • Fresh spawn from reputable source
  • Proper sterilization

Learn more from external sources:

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