Taxonomy of Aspergillus, Penicillium and Talaromyces and its Significance for Biotechnology

Abstract

Various fungi are used in biotechnology for their ability to produce a variety of small molecules and enzymes. The order Eurotiales contains the species-rich genera Aspergillus, Penicillium and Talaromyces and some species belonging to those genera are utilised for biotechnology. Application of the single name nomenclature has led to numerous name changes for many fungi. This chapter will provide an overview of important name changes for the genera Aspergillus, Penicillium, Talaromyces and other related genera. The number of newly described species has also increased significantly in the last decade. A sequence based approach is currently recommended to correctly identify species of these genera. This chapter will also provide an overview of molecular identification techniques for isolates belonging to these genera.