False colour scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of the spore-bearing bodies of the fungus Aspergillus fumigatus. Aspergillus species are common in the environment in dust, soil and vegetable material. A. fumigatus is can cause a number of different disease states in humans including allergic disorders, respiratory infections and invasive disease. Fungal balls known as aspergillomas can develop within the lungs, sometimes requiring surgical removal. Occasionally the fungus invades tissue, spreading from the lungs to the brain, kidneys, liver and skin. Magnification: x1800 at 6x6 cm size.