Rhizopus rhizopodiformis (Rhizopus microsporus variety rhizopodiformis)

A very rapid-growing fungus that produces a gray to dark brownish-gray colony within four days, when incubated at 25oC (77oF). It has worldwide distribution but is found primarily in the tropical and subtropical areas. It has been isolated from soil, salt marshes, mines, caves, bat guano, bird feathers, fresh and saltwater, plants, and foodstuffs. It is an opportunistic human pathogen causing cutaneous infections (zygomycosis) following the use of Elastoplast bandages to cover surgical wounds.

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