Question

A major fungal genus that produces aflatoxin is?

1) Rhizopus
2) Aspergillus
3) Claviceps
4) Penicillium

Answer 1

The major fungal genus that produces aflatoxin is Aspergillus. Aspergillus, specifically species like Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus, are known for producing aflatoxins, toxic secondary metabolites commonly found in contaminated crops. Therefore, the correct answer is 2) Aspergillus.

Step-by-step explanation:

The major fungal genus that produces aflatoxin is Aspergillus. Aflatoxins are toxic secondary metabolites produced by certain species of Aspergillus, particularly Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus.

These molds commonly contaminate crops such as peanuts, corn, and tree nuts, especially under warm and humid conditions. Aflatoxins pose significant health risks as they are potent carcinogens and can lead to various health issues in humans and animals.

Rhizopus is known for its role in food fermentation, Claviceps for producing ergot alkaloids, and Penicillium for producing antibiotics like penicillin, but they are not the primary producers of aflatoxin. Therefore, the correct answer is 2) Aspergillus.

Answer 2

The major fungi genus that produces aflatoxin is 2) Aspergillus.

Step-by-step explanation:

Aspergillus is a common mold that can contaminate nuts and grains, leading to the release of aflatoxins. Aflatoxins are highly toxic and carcinogenic compounds that can have severe health impacts, including liver cancer. Aspergillus also produces another mycotoxin called gliotoxin, which helps the fungus evade the host's immune response.

Aspergillus is a genus of fungi that belongs to the phylum Ascomycota. It is an opportunistic pathogen that can enter the body through contaminated food or inhalation. Inhalation of the fungus can lead to the development of chronic pulmonary diseases such as aspergillosis. Aflatoxin acts as a mutagen and a carcinogen in the host, and gliotoxin promotes virulence by inducing host cell self-destruction and inhibiting the immune response.

In conclusion, Aspergillus is the major fungi genus that produces aflatoxin. Aflatoxin is highly toxic and can lead to serious health consequences, including liver cancer. Aspergillus also produces gliotoxin, which helps the fungus evade the host's immune response. It is important to be aware of the presence of Aspergillus and take necessary precautions to avoid exposure to aflatoxins. The correct answer is 2) Aspergillus