IAQ Website of the Month- June 2010

Although Stachybotrys is the genus of mold that captures the headlines, you won’t find a six-thousand-page website dedicated to it.  That distinction belongs to another mold, Aspergillus.

Aspergillus, is a common genus of mold known for its practical uses (soy sauce, soft drinks) and serious effects on human health (aspergillosis).

This month’s featured website is a massive hub for all information related to Aspergillus.  The “Aspergillus Website” is owned and funded in part by the Fungal Research Trust, based in Manchester, UK.

Here are five sections of the website that I find of interest:

• History of Aspergillus
• 371 Mycotoxins and Metabolites of Aspergillus
• Blog that is enjoyable to read
• Articles Database
• Aspergillus: a primer for the novice (learn about the soy sauce and soft drink connection)

If you have more time, I recommend going through the menu of the website.  You’ll find videos, discussion forums, conference proceedings, links to other online resources, and a free newsletter.

The next time Aspergillus is affecting indoor air quality on one of your projects, you’ll be well armed with scientific research and fun facts on the genus of mold named after a brush for sprinkling holy water!