Although there are thousands of different species of molds, when media and news sources refer to “black mold,” they are generally referring to a specific type of mold called Stachybotrys chartarum.

The term is often used for Stachybotrys chartarum, which grows in warm, humid areas and feeds on moisture. If there's little ventilation present, it's the perfect storm for black mold growth.

That said, people talking about 'black mold' typically refer to a species called Stachybotrys chartarum, thanks to the media's focus on this particular growth. Testing is the best way to ...