Aspergillus is a genus of mold known for producing which toxin?

• A. Penicillins
• B. Antibiotics
• C. Pseudomycins
• D. Aflatoxins

Answer: (D)

Aspergillus produces aflatoxins, a family of highly toxic mycotoxins that can contaminate stored crops like peanuts, corn, and tree nuts. Aflatoxins are among the most potent natural carcinogens, with aflatoxin B1 strongly associated with liver cancer in humans and animals. They are produced by species such as Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus under warm, humid conditions that promote mold growth. Other choices refer to different organisms or broad categories—penicillins are antibiotics produced by Penicillium species, and pseudomycins are not the characteristic toxins linked to Aspergillus.