Aspergillus
Aspergillus () is a genus consisting of a few hundred mould species found in various climates worldwide.
Aspergillus was first catalogued in 1729 by the Italian priest and biologist Pier Antonio Micheli. Viewing the fungi under a microscope, Micheli was reminded of the shape of an aspergillum (holy water sprinkler), from Latin spargere (to sprinkle), and named the genus accordingly. Aspergillum is an asexual spore-forming structure common to all Aspergillus species; around one-third of species are also known to have a sexual stage.
Aspergillus can be eliminated from homes with the help of either rubbing alcohol(70%) or by using strong air purifiers to eliminate the effects on the lungs.
Penicillium
Penicillium () ascomycetous fungi are of major importance in the natural environment as well as food and drug production.
Some members of the genus produce penicillin, a molecule that is used as an antibiotic, which kills or stops the growth of certain kinds of bacteria. Other species are used in cheesemaking. According to the Dictionary of the Fungi (10th edition, 2008), the widespread genus contains over 300 species.
Aspergillus (noun)
Any of many molds, of the genus Aspergillus, many of which are pathogenic.
Penicillium (noun)
Any of the blue-green fungi, of the genus Penicillium, that are used in the manufacture of cheeses, and are an important source of antibiotics.