mold (redirected from moldable)

mold, name for certain multicellular organisms of the various classes of the kingdom Fungi, characteristically having bodies composed of a cottony mycelium. The colors of molds are caused by the spores, which are borne on the mycelium. Most molds are saprobes and can obtain moisture and nutriment from fruits, vegetables, jelly, cheese, butter, bread, silage, and almost any dead organic matter. Among the commonest forms is the black bread mold (Rhizopus nigricans), which grows on decaying vegetables and fruits as well as on bread. Some molds, e.g., species of Penicillium, are useful in the preparation of Camembert, Roquefort, and other cheeses. Penicillin and other antibiotic substances are also obtained from molds. A few molds are pathogenic, e.g., those which cause ringworm and other skin diseases and several which cause diseases of plants. Some molds produce toxic chemicals called mycotoxins that can cause serious diseases (see ergot). Some organisms traditionally thought to be mold (e.g., slime molds) have now been placed in the kingdom Protista.

Bibliography

See M. K. Matossian, Poisons of the Past: Molds, Epidemics, and History (1989).

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mold

Mold on surface of jelly

(credit: (Left) Ingmar Holmasen, (right) Stephen Collins)

In biology, a conspicuous mass of mycelium and fruiting structures produced by various fungi (division Mycota; see fungus). Molds of the genera Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Rhizopus are associated with food spoilage and plant diseases, but some have beneficial uses, as in the manufacture of antibiotics (e.g., penicillin) and certain cheeses. Neurospora, or orange bread mold, has been invaluable in the study of biochemical genetics. Water molds live in fresh or brackish water or wet soils, absorbing dead or decaying organic matter. See also slime mold.

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mold

In manufacturing, a cavity or surface in which a fluid or plastic substance is shaped into a desired finished product. A molten substance, such as metal or plastic, is poured or forced into a mold and allowed to harden. Molds are made of various materials, depending on the application; sand is frequently used for metal casting, hardened steel for molds for plastic materials, and plaster for various purposes. See also ingot, patternmaking, tool and die making.

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Mold

Town (pop., 1995 est.: 9,000), historic and present county of Flintshire, northeastern Wales. Situated between the industrial centres of Deeside and Wrexham, it grew up around a motte-and-bailey castle built by the Normans in the 12th century. In the area native Briton Christians had defeated the pagan Picts and Scots in a battle waged in AD 430. Long a market hub, it is the administrative centre and historic county seat of Flintshire.