Question:

Citrinin, a mycotoxin, is produced by __________.

Show Hint

The toxin's name is derived directly from the genus that produces it.
Updated On: Jul 4, 2026
  • Pythium
  • Penicillium
  • Fusarium
  • Helminthosporium
Show Solution
collegedunia
Verified By Collegedunia

The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Citrinin is a nephrotoxic mycotoxin, meaning it damages the kidneys, and it can contaminate stored grains and fermented foods.
Step 2: It is produced mainly by certain species of Penicillium, notably Penicillium citrinum, from which the toxin gets its name, as well as by some Aspergillus and Monascus species.
Step 3: Pythium causes damping off disease, Fusarium is associated with different mycotoxins such as fumonisins and trichothecenes, and Helminthosporium causes leaf spot diseases in cereals, none of which are the classic source of citrinin.
Step 4: So the correct answer is Penicillium.
Was this answer helpful?
0
0