Microbe Identification
Microbe nameAspergillus brevipes
NCBI Taxonomy ID75551
DescriptionAspergillus brevipes is a filamentous fungus characterized by its hyphal cell arrangement and sporulating capabilities, thriving in mesophilic conditions. This fungus, a chemoheterotroph, predominantly inhabits soil environments where it utilizes organic materials for energy and growth while requiring oxygen for its aerobic metabolism.Aspergillus brevipes displays a distinctive morphology, forming dense networks of hyphae that contribute to its filamentous nature. The fungus is capable of producing a variety of spores, which assist in its reproduction and dissemination in suitable habitats. The mesophilic temperature preference indicates that it flourishes within moderate temperature ranges, allowing it to adapt well to diverse environmental conditions.When subjected to Gram staining, Aspergillus brevipes typically produces a positive result; however, this outcome is not due to the presence of peptidoglycan, as seen in bacteria, but rather due to its thick cell wall structure composed of chitin and other polysaccharides. This phenomenon renders the Gram stain more of an artifact than a definitive classifier of fungal types, emphasizing the need for careful interpretation within mycology. Beyond its physiological characteristics, Aspergillus brevipes plays a significant role in various ecological processes, such as nutrient recycling in soil. The fungus is also notable for its capacity for polyketide synthesis, leading to the production of diverse secondary metabolites. Some of these metabolites have potential applications in medicine and agriculture, highlighting the importance of exploring this microbe further for biotechnological advancements.
Microbe Taxonomy
SuperkingdomEukaryota
KingdomFungi
PhylumAscomycota
ClassEurotiomycetes
OrderEurotiales
FamilyAspergillaceae
GenusAspergillus
Species brevipes
Microbe Properties
Gram staining propertiesPositive
ShapeNot Available
MobilityNo
Flagellar presenceNo
Number of membranesNot Available
Oxygen preferenceAerobic
Optimal temperatureNot Available
Temperature rangeNot Available
HabitatNot Available
Biotic relationshipNot Available
Cell arrangementSeptated hyphae
SporulationSporulating (ascospores); reproduction also by budding
MetabolismNot Available
Energy sourceOsmotrophic
Host and Biospecimens
HostBody siteBiospecimenDetailsData SourceReference
HumanGutFecesUnknownThe Human Microbiome Project (HMP)29178920