Penicillium sp.

Aw 0.78 - 0.88 (5) A wide number of organisms have placed in this genera. Identification to species is difficult. Often found in aerosol samples (17). Commonly found in soil, food, cellulose and grains (17, 5). It is also found in paint and compost piles. (5) It may cause hypersensitivity pneumonitis, allergic alveolitis in susceptible individuals. It is reported to be allergenic (skin) (7, 17). It is commonly found in carpet, wall paper, and in interior fiberglass duct insulation (NC). Some species can produce mycotoxins. Common cause of extrinsic asthma (immeadiate-type hypersensitivity: type I) (26). Acute symptoms include edema and bronchiospasms, chronic cases may develop pulmonary emphysema (26).

Penicillium culture plates were graciously provided by John I. Pitt, Commonwealth and Industrial Research Organization, Division of Food Processing, North Ryde, New South Wales, Australia.

Photos taken at April 2000 workshop, New Orleans. The following is a color appendix to A Laboratory Guide to Common Penicillium Species By John I. Pitt Food Science Australia, North Ryde, NSW 2113, Australia Third edition published by Food Science Australia, March, 2000. 197 pp. ISBN 0-643-04837-5.

For ordering details, view A Laboratory Guide to Common Penicillium Species publication website or email John Pitt at [email protected].

Due to lighting at the workshop and color settings that vary by computer, some distortions in actual color may occur.