| Actinomycetes: |
A group of soilborne bacteria that are mould-like in appearance. These organisms are sometimes found in flood-contaminated buildings. (The characteristic musty smell of wet/damp soil comes from compounds released by this group of bacteria). Education Note: a) Soilborne bacteria and mould in flooded buildings usually consist of dirt, mud and/or silt. And when removed, most of the bacteria and mould-like smells on top of hard surfaces will go away with detergent washing, rinsing, disinfecting and fast drying. b) The presence of soilborne bacteria and mould-like odours will not go away in porous building materials that have come in contact with the flood water. These materials must be removed and disposed . The remaining building materials must be detergent washed, rinsed and thoroughly dried, then inspected for additional damage. c) In particular, actinomycete bacteria produce similar smells to some fungi, and they appear under the microscope structurally similar to certain fungi. See Saprophytic Fungi |