Rhodotorula glutinis
Rhodotorula glutinis is the type species of the genus Rhodotorula, a basidiomycetous genus of pink yeasts which contains 370 species. Heterogeneity of the genus has made its classification difficult with five varieties having been recognized; however, as of 2011, all are considered to represent a single taxon. The fungus is a common colonist of animals, foods and environmental materials. It can cause opportunistic infections, notably blood infection in the setting of significant underlying disease. It has been used industrially in the production of carotenoid pigments and as a biocontrol agent for post-harvest spoilage diseases of fruits. Growth and morphology R. glutinis is an aerobic yeast characterized by pink, smooth colonies with a moist appearance. Reproduction is typically by multipolar budding although pseudohyphae are occasionally produced. Sexual reproduction is by basidiospores arising from a teliospore developed from a mycelial clamp connection. A distinguishing feature of the species and its close relatives are the intense yellow and red pigments produced during growth on most substrates. It normally grows at 37 °C at a rapid rate, and requires a minimum water activity of 0.92, pH of 2.2, and organic acids or HCl. Growth is inhibited by 100 mg/kg or less of benzoic acid