Monascus
| Monascus | |
|---|---|
| Monascus purpureus being used to make red rice wine | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Fungi |
| Division: | Ascomycota |
| Class: | Eurotiomycetes |
| Order: | Eurotiales |
| Family: | Aspergillaceae |
| Genus: | Monascus Tiegh. (1884) |
| Type species | |
| Monascus ruber | |
| Synonyms | |
Monascus is a genus of mold. Among the known species of this genus, the red-pigmented Monascus purpureus is among the most important because of its use in the production of certain fermented foods in East Asia, particularly China and Japan. It has also been found associated with the nests of some bee species, particularly bumblebees and sweat bees though its function in these environments is unclear.