Detection and identification of moulds in dutch houses and non-industrial working environments

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Abstract
The mycoflora of indoor non-industrial environments is reported from “case” studies in The Netherlands. Both air sampling by a RCS-Reutcr centrifugal air sampler and surface sampling by swabs and cellotape preparations were carried out in homes, archives and libraries, musea, offices and schools. Common species encountered in these indoor environments are Aspergillus versicolor, Penicillium brevicompactum, P. chrysogenum, Cladosporium spp. and the xerophilic fungi Eurotium spp. and Wallemia sebi. Aspergillus fumigatus, Scopulariopsis spp. and Stachybotrys chartarum were occasionally isolated. It is not always possible to detect the mycoflora growing on surfaces by air sampling. Therefore direct microscopical examination and sampling from surfaces in addition to air sampling is strongly recommended for the detection of viable moulds in indoor environments. Selection of the most suitable media for isolation of fungi is discussed.