Aspergillus tubingensis

A. tubingensis exists exclusively as an asexual fungus but is understood to be phylogenetically closely related to the other so-called black Aspergilli and sexual states in the genus Petromyces.

The production of Ochratoxin A (OTA) was previously thought to be a variable character dependent on strain;[7] however, the production of OTA is thought to be a consistent feature with prior reports of variation arising from the inclusion of misidentified strains (e.g., A. niger) or inconsistencies in test conditions such as incubation time, temperature, and growth medium.

[7] Aspergillus tubingensis exhibits high resistance to ultraviolet light and can grow in elevated temperatures[12] between 30–37 °C (86–99 °F),[13] with optimal growth between 21–36 °C (70–97 °F).

[12] Originally recognized from Chiang Mai, Thailand and China,[7] A. tubingensis is found worldwide in warm climate regions.

Amylase produced by A. tubingensis has potential use in the manufacture of bioethanol from distilled waste water and molasses residues.

[18] In commercial baking, the use of glucose oxidase enzyme (GOD) enhances texture, size, and loaf form.

[20] A. tubingensis has been suggested as a biocontrol agent for the protection of tomato plants against the pathogenic fungus, Fusarium solani.

[24] "The plastic-busting potential was discovered last year by a team of scientists from China and Pakistan, who sought to isolate the fungi that were degrading polyurethane at a waste disposal site in Islamabad.

The fungi were identified as aspergillus tubingensis and the scientists observed how it broke down bonds between the different polymers in weeks, rather than the decades it can take plastic to naturally disintegrate.