Cryptococcus neoformans is a species of encapsulated yeast-like fungus that can cause the serious lung and brain infection cryptococcosis, primarily in people with weakened immune systems. Found worldwide in soil, particularly soil contaminated with bird droppings, it is typically acquired by inhaling airborne fungal cells, and the related species Cryptococcus gattii can also cause disease in otherwise healthy people.
Facts
Classification
System (Realm) Living or Extinct Identification
Distinguishing AppearanceThe cells of species that produce yeasts are covered in a thin layer of glycoprotein capsular material that has a gelatin-like consistency 1 Scientific Name Connections
Child Taxon Of
Source Wikidata: Cryptococcus
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Found In
Also in Geography Atlas: where this subject is found.
Sources
1. Cryptococcus - Wikipedia
Wikidata, P225 taxon name
Cryptococcus
General characteristics section
The cells of species that produce yeasts are covered in a thin layer of glycoprotein capsular material that has a gelatin-like consistency
Article text
Cryptococcus species are commonly found within the environment in sources such as soil, decaying organic matter, and bird droppings, with pigeon droppings being the most significant.
View the Source2. Wikidata: Cryptococcus
- Wikidata Q309498, class allow-list match (w-wdresolver-0926)
- Wikipedia 'Cryptococcus': some species cause a disease called cryptococcosis
- Child Taxon Of: Basidiomycota, Wikidata parent-taxon (P171) chain
View the Source3. Wikidata (taxon extant/extinct status)
Wikimedia Foundation / Wikidata contributorsQ309498, descriptionView the Source Reader Challenges (0)
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