Archaeosporales

Archaeosporales is an order of fungi within the phylum Glomeromycota. Members are arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) that form mutualistic associations with the roots of many vascular plants. In these relationships, the fungi colonize root cortical cells and develop arbuscules that mediate nutrient exchange; the fungi receive plant-derived carbon in return. As with other AMF, they contribute to phosphate uptake, water relations, and soil aggregation, and are widespread in terrestrial ecosystems.

Taxonomy and phylogeny: Archaeosporales was proposed on the basis of molecular phylogenetic analyses that revealed a distinct clade within Glomeromycota. The order is characterized by certain spores and morphological traits, though morphological features are often limited and molecular data are essential for identification. It comprises several families and genera; however, taxonomic circumscription varies among sources, and some classifications place related lineages in other orders as the Glomeromycota taxonomy evolves.

Ecology and biology: In natural ecosystems, Archaeosporales members are common in soils with diverse plant communities. They form long-lasting hyphal networks and can colonize a wide range of plant hosts, including crops. Reproduction is predominantly asexual, via resting spores found in soil; sexual reproduction has not been observed in most glomeromycotan lineages and remains a topic of research.

Notes: Taxonomic understanding of Archaeosporales continues to develop with advances in molecular methods. It is part of the broader study of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and their roles in plant health and ecosystem functioning.