Geotrichum klebahnii

Geotrichum klebahnii is a species of fungus belonging to the family Dipodascaceae. It is a type of yeast that is commonly found in various environments, including soil, water, and air. It is also known to be associated with certain types of fermentation processes.

Taxonomy

The species was first described by Heinrich Klebahn, a German mycologist, in the early 20th century. The genus name Geotrichum comes from the Greek words geo meaning earth and trichos meaning hair, referring to the filamentous growth of these fungi. The species name klebahnii is in honor of its discoverer.

Characteristics

Geotrichum klebahnii is a saprophytic fungus, meaning it obtains its nutrients from decaying organic matter. It is characterized by its white to cream-colored colonies and its ability to grow at a wide range of temperatures. It reproduces asexually through the formation of spores.

Ecology

Geotrichum klebahnii is a ubiquitous organism, found in a variety of environments worldwide. It plays a significant role in the decomposition of organic matter in the environment, contributing to the nutrient cycle. It is also known to be involved in the fermentation of certain foods and beverages.

Industrial Use

In the food industry, Geotrichum klebahnii is used in the production of certain types of cheese and fermented beverages. It contributes to the flavor and texture of these products. However, it can also cause spoilage of food and is considered a potential foodborne pathogen.

Health Impact

While Geotrichum klebahnii is generally harmless to healthy individuals, it can cause infection in people with weakened immune systems. The infection, known as geotrichosis, can affect the skin, lungs, and other organs.

See Also

• Geotrichum candidum
• Fermentation in food processing
• Foodborne illness