Fungal Diseases

1. Improper handling and storage of cereal grains and oilseeds result in

Improper handling and storage of cereal grains and oilseeds result in the production of toxins known as aflatoxins which are not generally destroyed by normal cooking process. Aflatoxins are produced by

[amp_mcq option1=”bacteria” option2=”protozoa” option3=”moulds” option4=”viruses” correct=”option3″]

This question was previously asked in
UPSC IAS – 2013
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The correct answer is C) moulds.
Aflatoxins are naturally occurring mycotoxins that are produced by certain molds, specifically species of *Aspergillus*, most notably *Aspergillus flavus* and *Aspergillus parasiticus*. These molds grow on various food crops, such as maize, peanuts, cottonseed, and tree nuts, often under conditions of high humidity and temperature and improper storage. Aflatoxins are highly toxic and carcinogenic, and are not typically destroyed by normal cooking temperatures.
Aflatoxin contamination is a significant concern for food safety, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. Exposure to aflatoxins can cause acute liver damage and is a major risk factor for liver cancer. Regulatory limits for aflatoxins in food and feed are set by many countries to protect public health.

2. “Athlete’s foot” is a skin disease caused by

“Athlete’s foot” is a skin disease caused by

[amp_mcq option1=”virus” option2=”fungus” option3=”alga” option4=”bacterium” correct=”option2″]

This question was previously asked in
UPSC Geoscientist – 2023
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“Athlete’s foot” is a common name for tinea pedis, which is a fungal infection affecting the skin of the feet. It is typically caused by dermatophyte fungi, such as *Trichophyton*, *Epidermophyton*, and *Microsporum*. These fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, making feet enclosed in shoes and socks susceptible.
– Athlete’s foot is a skin infection.
– Caused by a type of fungus.
– Medically known as tinea pedis.
– Fungi that cause it are called dermatophytes.
Fungal infections are distinct from those caused by viruses (like warts or herpes), algae (which don’t typically cause human skin diseases), or bacteria (like impetigo or cellulitis). Antifungal medications are used to treat athlete’s foot.
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