How do mould spore traps work?

Spore traps function by actively pulling air through a cassette using a calibrated pump, typically at a flow rate of 15 litres per minute. Inside the cassette is an adhesive-coated slide that captures airborne particles, including fungal spores. Once collected, the slide is prepared with a stain and analysed microscopically. This allows the identification of fungal genera based on morphology. Spore traps are capable of capturing both viable and non-viable spores, making them ideal for situations where fast results are needed or where culturing is not feasible.