Aspergillus

In News

• • Researchers have recently identified two novel species of Aspergillus section Nigri, commonly referred to as black aspergilli.

About Aspergillus

• • Aspergillus is a genus of filamentous fungi widely distributed across diverse ecological habitats.

Ecological roles:

• • Saprophytes – decompose organic matter, recycling nutrients.
  • Endophytes – reside within plant tissues without causing apparent harm.
  • Opportunistic pathogens – cause infections in immunocompromised humans and animals (e.g., aspergillosis).

Black Aspergilli (Section Nigri)

• • Often called the “workhorses of industry” due to their extensive biotechnological applications.

Industrial Significance:

• • Citric acid production – Aspergillus niger is the primary industrial source.
  • Food mycology – used in food processing and enzyme production.
  • Fermentation technology – employed in large-scale enzyme synthesis (e.g., amylases, proteases, lipases).
  • Agriculture – contribute to soil health and crop protection through microbial interactions.
  • Also studied in the context of mycotoxins and food spoilage.