Aspergillus niger

A rapidly growing fungus that produces a black colony within ten days, when incubated at 25oC (77oF). It produces a musty odor. It is very common worldwide especially in the subtropical and tropical regions. It can be isolated from air, soil, sand beaches, mangrove swamp, fresh water containing organic detritus, sewage sludge, compost, foodstuffs especially fruits and vegetables, animal dung, bird feathers, wood pulp, seeds, textiles, and sauna baths. In man, it occurs primarily as the causal agent of chronic ear infections and rarely causes pulmonary aspergillosis.

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