Penicillium (Noun)
Meaning
Genus of fungi commonly growing as green or blue molds on decaying food; used in making cheese and as a source of penicillin.
Classification
Nouns denoting plants.
Examples
- The penicillium fungus is often found growing on decaying fruit and vegetables in the garden compost heap.
- Penicillium is a type of mold that is commonly used in the production of blue cheeses such as gorgonzola and stilton.
- In the laboratory, scientists cultivate penicillium to produce penicillin, a widely used antibiotic.
- The penicillium fungus can be found growing on a variety of decaying organic matter, including bread and grains.
- Some species of penicillium are used in the production of soft cheeses, such as brie and camembert, where they contribute to the characteristic white mold rind.