Traditional spore counting can only identify spores based on fungal taxonomy. As such,
identification at a species level is usually impossible. Spores are combined into a group
when it is impossible to identify to a genus level, e.g. Aspergillus/Penicillium (Asp/Pen)-
like spores. As a result, people may be misled to think that there is no difference
between the spore counts of their indoor and outdoor samples.

For instance, the Asp/Pen-like spores in an indoor sample could be small with a smooth
cell wall, while the Asp/Pen spores in the outdoor sample are large with a rough cell
wall. This signifies that they are not from the same fungal colony. Traditional spore
counting does not point out this difference.

Based on these findings, QLab is pleased to announce that it has developed a new
analysis called MoldSense Spore Differentiation™. This technology uses the different
characteristics in microscopic morphology and chemical reactivity of spores to make up
the different “profile” groups. Although identification based on fungal taxonomy cannot
be made, the morphological variations among the spores can be described to indicate
their different origins.  Please click
here for a sample report.  

Asp/Pen-like and Cladosporium spores, which are important spores in IAQ
investigation, are divided into eight and three profile groups, respectively. The number
of spores in each group makes up a “signature” profile. Therefore, if the indoor spores
come from outdoor air, then the "signature" profile should be similar. Using this new
analysis, the chances of discovering indoor mold growth will be significantly increased,
especially when the counts of Asp/Pen-like and Cladosporium spores are significantly
high in the outdoor air.

The variations in the microscopic morphologies of different spores within a fungal group
can be recognized only by well-trained and highly experienced analysts. The Spore
Signature Analysis™ offered at QLab is currently performed only by Senior Ph.D.
Microbiologists.  

Please
contact us for more information.
MoldSense Makes More Sense!™
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
MoldSense Spore Differentiation