Aspergillus Species
The Aspergillus genus is composed of over 200 species, many of which have been extensively studied due to their industrial, agricultural, and medical importance. Of these species, Aspergillus niger is by far the most common and widely studied. A. niger is a ubiquitous species, meaning it can be found all over the world in both natural and man-made habitats. It is a common saprophyte, meaning it obtains its nutrition from dead or decaying organic matter and is commonly found in soil, compost piles, stored grain, and other similar environments. A. niger is also known to cause spoilage in a variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, and dairy products.