What term is used for molds that thrive in water-damaged environments at room temperature?

The term that describes molds thriving in water-damaged environments at room temperature is mesophilic. Mesophilic molds typically prefer moderate temperatures, generally ranging between 20°C to 45°C (68°F to 113°F), which aligns with typical room temperature conditions.

Molds in this category are commonly found in environments where moisture levels are elevated, such as in water-damaged buildings. Their growth can lead to significant health risks and property damage.

Psychrophilic molds prefer cold environments and thrive at low temperatures, which limits their prevalence in water-damaged situations at room temperature. Thermophilic molds, on the other hand, thrive at higher temperatures, often found in composting materials or hot environments, making them less relevant to typical indoor mold problems. Extremophilic molds are adapted to extreme conditions, such as very high or low pH, salinity, or temperature, and are not specifically associated with the moderate, humid conditions found in water-damaged areas.