Genus Penicillium belong to the class

Options

A. Basidiomycetes
B. Ascomycetes
C. Phycomycetes
D. Deuteromycetes

Explanation

To determine the class to which the genus Penicillium belongs, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Identify the Genus**: The question asks about the genus Penicillium. We need to understand what this genus represents in biological classification.

2. **Understand the Classification of Fungi**: Penicillium is a type of fungus. Fungi are classified into different groups or classes based on their reproductive structures and life cycles.

3. **List the Options**: The options given are:
- Bacidiomycetes
- Ascomycetes
- Phycomycetes
- Deuteromycetes

4. **Analyze the Characteristics of Each Class**:
- **Bacidiomycetes**: This class includes fungi that typically have a complex reproductive structure known as a basidium.
- **Ascomycetes**: This class is characterized by the presence of ascospores, which are produced in a sac-like structure called an ascus.
- **Phycomycetes**: This class includes the lower fungi, which often reproduce asexually and have simpler structures.
- **Deuteromycetes**: This class is known as the "imperfect fungi" because they do not have a known sexual reproduction stage.

5. **Relate Penicillium to Its Class**: Penicillium is known for producing penicillin and is characterized by its conidia (asexual spores). It is primarily classified under the Ascomycetes due to its reproductive structures.

6. **Conclusion**: Based on the characteristics and classification, the genus Penicillium belongs to the class **Ascomycetes**.

### Final Answer:
The genus Penicillium belongs to the class **Ascomycetes**.