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Penicillium notatum and penicillin
Penicillium notatum, the source of penicillin.
Penicillium
genus of fungi
Penicillium, genus of blue or green mold fungi (kingdom Fungi) that exists as asexual forms (anamorphs, or deuteromycetes). Those species for which the sexual phase is known are placed in the Eurotiales. Found on foodstuffs, leather, and fabrics, they are of economic importance in the production of antibiotics (penicillin, q.v.), organic acids, and cheeses.
This article was most recently revised and updated by Kara Rogers.
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