On the heridity of some characteristics in two strains of Aspergillus flavus-Oryzae

1. Two wild strains of Aspergillus flavus-Oryzae were isolated from rice and dead termites, at Buitenzorg, Java. 2. The strains showed clearly marked morphological and physiological differences, which remained constant throughout the experiment. 3. The way in which diastase was produced, was the same as described formerly. 4. The hydrolysis of rice starch appeared to be much more difficult for the diastase of Aspergillus flavus-Oryzae than that of potato starch. 5. The strain from the termites did not grow better on pepton and albumine than that from rice; all the other differences appeared constant on these substances, only the diastase production of both was equally reduced and irregular. 6. Change of climate and after effect of different nutrient solutions did not have any influence on diastase production and other characteristics. 7. The facts known at the present moment compel us to consider the strains of Aspergillus flavus-Oryzae as heriditary races. I wish to express my heartfelt thanks to dr. B. C. C. Janse, director of the chemical department of the Medical Laboratory, Weltevreden, for his kindness in providing me with the soluble starches, necessary for my research; to the “Centraal Bureau voor Schimmelcultures”, Baarn, which very kindly verified my determination of the strains, and finally to Mr, C. Deelder, Schiedam, who once more gave his valuable help in correcting the translation of this paper.