2. INTRODUCTION
First catalogued in 1729 by the italian
priest and biologist pier antonio
micheli.
Viewing the fungi under a microscope,
micheli was reminded of the shape of
an aspergillum (holy water sprinkler),
from latin spargere (to sprinkle), &
named the genus accordingly.
3. REPRODUCTION
Asexual spore-forming structure
common to all Aspergillus species;
Around one-third of species are also
known to have a sexual stage.
4. Growth
Aspergillus is defined as a group
of conidial :fungi in an asexual state.
Some of them, however, are known to have
a teleomorph :sexual state
in the ASCOMYCOTA with DNA proof
Pic of phylum : ASCOMYCOTA
5.
6.
7. DISTRIBUTION
Possess the ability to grow : a high osmotic pressure exists :high concentration of
sugar, salt, etc.
Aspergillus species: highly aerobic
Found in : almost all oxygen-rich environments, where they commonly grow
as molds on the surface of a substrate,
Commonly, fungi grow on carbon-rich substrates
Common contaminants of starchy foods : as bread and potatoes
Grow in or on many plants and trees.
In addition to growth on carbon sources,
Many species of aspergillus demonstrate oligotrophy.
Several species of aspergillus, : a. Niger and A.Fumigatus will readily colonise
buildings, favouring warm and damp or humid areas :bathrooms around window
frames.