Question

Which of the following is the common ‘bread mould’ fungus?
A. Aspergillus
B. Mucor
C. Rhizopus
D. Neurospora

Answer 1

Hint: A fungus is any member of the group of eukaryotic organisms that includes microorganisms such as yeasts and molds, as well as the more familiar mushrooms. Fungi have chitin in their cell wall which differentiates them from another kingdom.

Complete answer: Rhizopus stolonifer is commonly known as black bread mold. It is a member of Zygomycota and considered the most important species in the genus Rhizopus. It is one of the most common fungi in the world and has a global distribution although it is most commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions. It is a common agent of decomposition of stored foods. Like other members of the genus Rhizopus, R. stolonifer grows rapidly, mostly in indoor environments.
So, the answer is C-Rhizopus
Additional information:
Rhizopus stolonifer species is known as a saprotroph and plays an important role in the early colonization of substrate in soil. Nonetheless, it can also behave like a parasite of plant tissues causing rot of vegetables and fruits. Like other species of Rhizopus, R. stolonifer grows rapidly and spreads by means of the stolons. The stolons provide an aerial structure for the growth of the mycelium. The spores are shaped differently depending on the available nutrients. They can be ovate, polygonal, or angular. The optimal temperature for growth varies between 25-30 degree Celsius. The thermal death point, which is defined as the lowest temperature that can kill all cells in ten minutes, is 60 degrees Celsius.

Note: Fungi are heterotrophs; they acquire their food by absorbing dissolved molecules, typically by secreting digestive enzymes into their environment. Rhizopus stolonifer can grow in acidic environments with a pH of as low as 2.2. The pH range can vary from 2.2 to 9.6. Ultraviolet irradiation can delay spore germination. Rhizopus stolonifer can reproduce asexually and sexually. It is a heterothallic species.