• Have an optimum temperature of 20–25°C • Reproduce asexually • Produce conidia at the tip of the hyphae
Example Grows on
Characteristics Penicillium • Bread • Cheese • Fruit
• Saprophytic • Reproduces asexually
• Has a green- blue powdery mould
was the first antibiotic to be discovered. Did you know
Penecillium is used to make the antibiotic penicillin. It was discovered in 1928. It
Certain penicillium and aspergillus species produce toxins, e.g. aflatoxins, that are toxic to humans and animals. Some may also be carcinogenic. These may contaminate food or animal feed.
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Write a detailed account of one type of mould with reference to the following: • name • description/characteristics • reproduction. (22) HL
Leaving Certificate Home Economics 213 Aspergillus
• Cereal grains • Dried fruit • Black rot on fruit and vegetables
• Saprophytic • Reproduces asexually
• Has a black or green mould
Rhizopus
• Bread • Soil • Soft rot (watery decay) on fruit and vegetables
