Geographic Distribution. Aspergillus niger is ubiquitous and commonly found in soils, seeds, plant litter, plant rhizospheres, dried fruit, and nuts. It is one of the most common fungi found on foods (1).

Where does Aspergillus grow?

The fungus is often found growing on dead leaves, stored grain, compost piles, or in other decaying vegetation. It can also be found on marijuana leaves. Although most people are often exposed to aspergillus, infections caused by the fungus rarely occur in people who have a healthy immune system.

What is Aspergillus niger in humans?

The fungus Aspergillus niger is a type of mould, which can sometimes be attributed to the cause of some cases of pneumonia. It is also the causative agent of 'black mould' on the outsides of certain foods, such as apricots, onions, grapes, etc - therefore making Aspergillus niger a food 'spoilage' organism.