What is Mold?
Mold is a type of fungi that can grow in both indoor and outdoor environments. Mold grows in damp areas, such as in basements or bathrooms. Mold can also be found on surfaces that are frequently wet, such as shower curtains or laundry rooms.
Mold is black or green and has a fuzzy or slimy appearance. Mold spores can cause allergic reactions in some people, so it is essential to remove mold growths as soon as possible. Mold can cause structural damage to your home and is also harmful to human health.
All microscopic fungal species, known as molds, develop as multicellular filaments known as hyphae. Any organic material, including clothing, leather, paper, ceilings, walls, and floors of houses with moisture management issues, can support mold growth.
Shower walls, windowsills, and other surfaces with high moisture content are frequently home to mildew. Molds come in a variety of species. They can emit a powerful musty smell in enclosed spaces like basements.
What is Mildew?
Mildew is a type of fungi that is confused with mold. Mildew is white or grey and has a powdery or fuzzy appearance. Unlike decay, mildew does not cause structural damage to buildings. However, mildew can still harm human health and should be removed as soon as possible.
Based on DNA sequence information, the taxonomy of the fungi that cause powdery mildew (order Erysiphe’s) has undergone a significant change. Identification used to be primarily based on the teleomorph (sexual stage) and the morphology of the chasmothecium and its appendages.
Still, it turns out that this morphology is less preserved than first thought. The new taxonomy requires characteristics of the anamorph (asexual stage) to identify powdery mildews, which integrates traits of the entire fungus (anamorph plus teleomorph, i.e., the holomorph).
The genera of powdery mildew are now divided into five tribes, and some genera have been combined or introduced. The tribes are depicted in the chart below, along with a few representative genera from each. The old teleomorph names (and less used anamorphic words) are also provided for reference.
Difference Between Mold and Mildew
Mold and mildew are two terms that are used interchangeably, but they are two distinct types of fungi. Both can cause damage to your home. Mold growth is a common occurrence in households and can have a variety of causes.
Mold is a fungus that grows in damp, humid environments and is found in homes. Many people mistake mold for mildew, but there are some critical differences between the two. One of the differences is the appearance of both: mold is black or green, while mildew is white or grey.
Mold is also fuzzy in appearance, while mildew is powdery. Mildew, however, is a specific type of mold that grows on fabrics and plants.
The difficulty of removing each fungus is another distinction between mildew and mold. When it comes to mildew, need a mildew cleanser and a reliable scrub brush. But most people should be able to manage mold on their own.
It is best to leave mold removal to professionals. Nevertheless, since there are mold prevention techniques, it is possible to prevent mold without employing somebody.
Comparison Between Mold and Mildew
| Parameter of Comparison | Mold | Mildew |
| Growth | In the form of black or green patches | Flat growth |
| Colors | Green, red, or black | White/gray in early stages |
| Appearance | Fuzzy or slimy | Powdery or downy |
| Exposure Symptoms | Allergic reactions, Heart or respiratory problems | Coughing, headaches, sore throat, and respiratory problems |
| Affects | Structural damage | Affects plants or crops |