Genus of filamentous moulds that reproduce by conidia; includes both pathogens and industrially useful species【555570845485268†L242-L276】.
Explanation
Aspergillus is a large genus of filamentous ascomycete fungi comprising several hundred species. These moulds produce septate hyphae and characteristic conidiophores ending in a vesicle covered with chains of asexual spores (conidia). Species of Aspergillus are ubiquitous in soil, decaying vegetation and indoor environments, where they grow on carbon‑rich substrates. They are aerobic and release vast quantities of conidia that disperse through the air【555570845485268†L313-L326】. The genus exhibits metabolic versatility; some species are saprophytes that recycle organic matter, whereas others form symbioses, cause plant diseases or spoil stored food. Some produce secondary metabolites such as aflatoxins that pose risks to human and animal health.
Notable species and roles
Several Aspergillus species are medically or economically important. Aspergillus fumigatus is the most common cause of invasive aspergillosis in immunocompromised hosts and allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis in asthmatic patients【555570845485268†L242-L276】. Aspergillus flavus is a plant pathogen that contaminates crops with carcinogenic aflatoxins and can cause superficial and invasive infections. Aspergillus terreus and A. niger may cause ear and systemic infections. Conversely, some species have industrial uses: A. niger is exploited for citric acid and enzyme production, while A. oryzae and A. sojae are domesticated for fermentation of soy sauce and sake【555570845485268†L242-L276】. Aspergillus nidulans is a genetic model organism, and other species contribute to biotechnology through production of organic acids, antibiotics and enzymes.
Exposure to Aspergillus conidia is common, but disease occurs mainly when host immunity is compromised or when high spore loads overwhelm defences. Understanding species diversity and their ecological roles aids both clinical management of aspergillosis and harnessing beneficial strains for industry.
Related Terms: Mold, Hyphae, Sporulation, Mycotoxin, Aspergillosis