Aspergillus (Noun)
Meaning
Genus of common molds causing food spoilage and some pathogenic to plants and animals.
Classification
Nouns denoting plants.
Examples
- The genus Aspergillus includes molds that are notorious for spoiling stored grains and seeds.
- Some species of Aspergillus can produce toxic compounds called mycotoxins, which can cause serious health problems in animals that ingest contaminated feed.
- In rare cases, people with weakened immune systems can contract life-threatening infections from inhaling Aspergillus spores.
- Farmers take great care to minimize Aspergillus contamination of crops to avoid reduced yields and decreased profits.
- Certain species of Aspergillus have also been linked to allergies and respiratory problems in humans who inhale the spores.