Aspergillus
Aspergillus is a genus of moulds in the division Ascomycota. This fungal genus is known to have hundreds of species that are found worldwide. They are asexual spore forming genera that are highly aerobic in nature. The asexual spore forming body is known as conidiophore. However, some of the species have been reported to have a sexual state.
More than 60 species of Aspergillus are known to cause infections in humans such as skin lesions and ulcers. However, some species also hold commercial importance. Aspergillus niger, the most common species of the genera, is a major source of citric acid and enzymes such as lactase, glucose oxidase and lysozyme.
Penicillium
Penicillium is another genus of ascomycetous fungi that is of great medicinal importance. It consists of a highly branched thallus that is multinucleated, has colourless hyphae and is septate.
Asexual reproduction takes place by conidia that are formed in conidiophores. Sexual reproduction takes place by means of ascospores. They are ubiquitous soil fungi that are found in preferably moderate and cool climates.
P. chrysogenum is one of the most important species of the genera as it was used to isolate the antibiotic penicillin. It inhibits the growth of gram-positive bacteria. Other than this, Penicillium is also used in cheese making and also for several enzymes such as cellulases, amylases and lipases.
Aspergillus vs Penicillium
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Aspergillus |
Penicillium |
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Reproduction |
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Reproduction in Aspergillus is mostly asexual, but some have been reported to show sexual stages. |
Penicillium shows both sexual and asexual mode of reproduction. |
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Infection Capacity |
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Aspergillus is a major pathogen that causes various infections in humans. The diseases caused by the genus are known as aspergillosis. |
Their disease causing ability is low. |
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Economic Importance |
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A. niger is a major source of citric acid and enzymes such as lysozyme and lactase. |
P. chrysogenum is used to isolate the antibiotic penicillin. |
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