Are you a Fungi?
Have you ever opened the refrigerator in anticipation of something delicious only to pull it out with mold on it? Do you love eating mushrooms? Ever wonder what makes bread rise, the magic ingredient is yeast. Mushrooms, molds, mildew and yeast are all considered fungi. Fungi have to take in food materials from the bodies of living or dead plants or animals to survive; they have no roots, stems, leaves, flowers, or seeds as most plants do. Fungi thrive in dark places, such as underground caves, dark closets and between walls; they don’t need light to live.
When you refrigerate food, it prevents bacteria from growing, but it won’t prevent mold form growing on fruits and vegetables, or on your favorite cheese. Found everywhere, fungi are in the air, soil, and water. To date, about 100,000 different kinds of fungi have been classified. Mycology is the study of fungi and the scientist who study fungi are called mycologists. Mycologists believe there are another 200,000 fungi waiting to be named.
Fungi play a critical role as important recyclers in nature. By the process of decomposition, they break down dead animals and plants into simple compounds that are returned to the soil. Plants in turn, can use these compounds to grow. Believe it or not, fungi and bacteria are the main decomposers of organic matter on our planet, their role is critical. Dead plants and animals would pile up and cover the earth and their chemicals could not be reused if they were not composed and recycled by fungi. Fungi allow their nutrients to be returned to the soil and water for other things to use.
Contact the experts at Executive Restoration (704) 545-0098. They can answer any questions you may have about mold, or visit us online at www.gotmoldinnorthcarolina.com.