Aspergillus niger has a worldwide distribution and is commonly found on decaying vegetation, stored grains such as rice, and soil. In indoor environment, Aspergillus niger is isolated from floor, carpet and mattress dust, acrylic paint, leather, HVAC filters and fans, and potted plant soil. It has been associated with invasive pulmonary aspergillosis particularly in immuno-compromised people. It has also been reported to cause ear and nose infections.

Aspergillus niger has a number of industrial uses including production of citric acid. Respiratory problems among workers in citric acid factories have been attributed to inhalation of high concentrations of spores of this mould.

Aspergillus niger also produces toxic metabolites such as malformin C.



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