Mould fungus (Penicillium expansum) Science Image

Ref: 80200576



Mould fungus (Penicillium expansum), coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM). This fungus, also called blue mould, is a pathogen of plant material, producing the characteristic post-harvest decay of apples and similar fruit. The fruit turn soft and brown, and spores (seen here) are formed that are initially white, and then turn blue. This fungus can have significant effects on fruit production, leading to the use of fungicides to try and control it. Magnification: x1690 when printed at 10 centimetres across.