🦠microbiology review
key term - Penicillium
Definition
Penicillium is a genus of fungi known for its role in natural environments, food production, and antibiotic discovery. It is commonly found in soil, decaying vegetation, and indoor environments.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
- Penicillium species are known for their blue or green mold appearance.
- Penicillium notatum was the original source of the antibiotic penicillin.
- These fungi reproduce asexually through conidia spores.
- Several Penicillium species are used in cheese production, such as Penicillium roqueforti and Penicillium camemberti.
- Penicillium can also produce mycotoxins that may be harmful to humans and animals.