Mould facts for kids
Mould (or mold) is a type of fungus. It grows in the form of multicellular filaments called hyphae. In contrast, fungi that can adopt a single-celled growth habit are called yeasts.
Molds are a large group of fungi. The growth of their hyphae results in discoloration and a fuzzy appearance, especially on food. The network of these tubular branching hyphae, called a mycelium, is considered a single organism.
Mould grows from spores, which float around in the air. There are thousands of different kinds. Some molds cause disease or food spoilage. Sometimes people use them to make some kinds of cheese. Many antibiotics are developed from natural anti-bacterial substance made by moulds.
Related pages
Images for kids
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Spores from green mold growing on an orange, 1000× wet mount
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Moldy housecorner from outside and inside
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Mold stains on a gift card with package which was stored unintentionally for six months in an open compartment in a motorcycle
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Del Nero artwork using mold
See also
In Spanish: Moho para niños
