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Welcome everyone!
If you are searching to find out more about the fungus Aspergillus
flavus you came to the right place! This site is full of
interesting facts about this unique organism. Let's get
started...
What is Aspergillus flavus?
Aspergillus flavus is a pathogenic fungus whose spores are ubiquitous in nature. It can cause aspergillosis in animals, including YOU! Although it has no specific common name, it can also be recognized as the "aflatoxin producer". Aflatoxin is a toxic and carcinogenic compound produced by A. flavus.
Where did it get its name?
The genus name Aspergillus is actually named after an
aspergillum. An aspergillum is a light-weight metal device used to
sprinkle holy water for ceremonies in the Roman Catholic Church
(shown to the right). It has a clu.png)
b like shape with a round head at the top. This head is perforated which is how the water is
sprinkled. This structure resembles the conidial head of members
within the genus Aspergillus.
Can you see the resemblance? To the left is a place for holy
water with the Asperges Psalm written above. Asperges means to
sprinkle. The specific epithet “flavus” is Latin for the color yellow. This
is the color of conidia produced by Aspergillus flavus.
The Asperges Psalm
If you're curious about this fungus' taxonomy, move on to the classification page!
To check out other interesting organisms go to the following
link: Multipleorganisms.net
For revisions or comments feel free to contact Alexa Ernst at: ernst.ale2@uwlax.edu
The University of Wisconsin-La Crosse
Updated on April 19th 2013
