Question

The aflatoxin is a toxic metabolite mainly produced by

• A. Aspergillus flavus & Aspergillus ambiguus
• B. Aspergillus flavus & Aspergillus parasiticus
• C. Aspergillus parafelis & Aspergillus terreus
• D. Aspergillus flavus & Aspergillus niger

Hint:

Aflatoxin $\text{B}_1$ in dairy feed is converted to Aflatoxin $\text{M}_1$ in milk. The "M" stands for milk, reflecting its source.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Aflatoxins are highly toxic, carcinogenic mycotoxins produced as secondary metabolites by specific mold species belonging to the genus Aspergillus.
These toxins can contaminate agricultural crops and animal feeds.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The principal fungi responsible for aflatoxin production are Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus.
These molds grow on crops such as peanuts, corn, cottonseeds, and animal feed under warm, humid storage conditions.
When dairy animals ingest feed contaminated with aflatoxin $\text{B}_1$, the toxin is metabolized in the liver into aflatoxin $\text{M}_1$.
This metabolite is excreted in the milk, presenting a public health concern because aflatoxin $\text{M}_1$ is heat-resistant and survives pasteurization.
While other species of Aspergillus (such as Aspergillus niger or Aspergillus terreus) produce different secondary metabolites (like citric acid or ochratoxins), they are not primary producers of aflatoxins.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Therefore, aflatoxins are primarily produced by Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus.