Abstract
Three new aflatoxin-producing species belonging to Aspergillus section Flavi are described. They are Aspergillus mottae, A. sergii and A. transmontanensis. These species were isolated from Portuguese almonds and maize. An investigation examined morphology, extrolite production and DNA sequence data to characterize these isolates and describe the new species. Phylogenetic analysis showed that A. transmontanensis and A. sergii form a clade with A. parasiticus whereas A. mottae shares a most recent common ancestor with the combined A. flavus and A. parasiticus clade.
Acknowledgments
The authors appreciate the Latin translation of the diagnoses by Dr Walter Gams. The mention of firm names or trade products does not imply that they are endorsed or recommended by the U. S. Department of Agriculture over other firms or similar products not mentioned. USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Célia Soares and Paula Rodrigues were supported by grants from Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia (references SFRH/BD/37264/2007 and SFRH/PROTEC/49555/2009 respectively).