mold

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Introduction References & Edit History

Images & Videos

Observe time-lapse photography of Penicillium mold releasing penicillin to its surroundings

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Science & Tech

mold

fungus

Also known as: mould

Written and fact-checked by The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last Updated: Apr 4, 2024 • Article History

mold

See all media

Category: Science & Tech

Also spelled:: mould

Key People:: George Wells Beadle; Edward L. Tatum

Related Topics:: Rhizopus; Aspergillus; Penicillium; Fusarium; Neurospora

On the Web:: University of Minnesota Extension - Dealing with and preventing mold in your home (Apr. 04, 2024)

peach mold
Magnified view of peach mold (*Rhizopus*).

mold, in biology, a conspicuous mass of mycelium (masses of vegetative filaments, or hyphae) and fruiting structures produced by various fungi (kingdom Fungi). Fungi of the genera Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Rhizopus form mold and are associated with food spoilage and plant diseases.

This article was most recently revised and updated by Kara Rogers.