How many of the following belongs to Ascomycota ?
Aspergillus, Rhizopus, Agaricus , Claviceps, Neurspora , Albugo , Erysiphae, Alternaria, Penicillium

Options

A. 3
B. 4
C. 5
D. 6

Answer

To determine how many of the listed fungi belong to the Ascomycota phylum, we will analyze each organism one by one:

1. **Aspergillus**: This is a genus of fungi that belongs to Ascomycota. It is known for its role in fermentation and as a source of antibiotics.

2. **Rhizopus**: This genus is part of the Zygomycota phylum, not Ascomycota. It is commonly known for bread mold.

3. **Agaricus**: This genus includes mushrooms, specifically the common button mushroom, and belongs to the Basidiomycota phylum.

4. **Claviceps**: This genus is known for producing ergot, a fungal disease of cereal grains, and it belongs to Ascomycota.

5. **Neurospora**: This is a genus of fungi that is widely used in genetic research and belongs to Ascomycota.

6. **Albugo**: This genus is a type of oomycete and does not belong to Ascomycota; it is classified under the Stramenopiles.

7. **Erysiphe**: This genus includes powdery mildews and is classified under Ascomycota.

8. **Alternaria**: This genus is often associated with plant diseases and is classified under the Deuteromycetes (imperfect fungi), which is not strictly Ascomycota but is sometimes included in discussions about it.

9. **Penicillium**: This genus is well-known for its role in antibiotic production and belongs to Ascomycota.

Now, let's summarize the results:

- Aspergillus: Ascomycota
- Rhizopus: Not Ascomycota
- Agaricus: Not Ascomycota
- Claviceps: Ascomycota
- Neurospora: Ascomycota
- Albugo: Not Ascomycota
- Erysiphe: Ascomycota
- Alternaria: Not strictly Ascomycota (often considered in the context)
- Penicillium: Ascomycota

Counting the ones that belong to Ascomycota:
- Aspergillus
- Claviceps
- Neurospora
- Erysiphe
- Penicillium

Thus, there are **5 organisms** that belong to the Ascomycota phylum.

**Final Answer**: 5