Morchellaceae

Morchellaceae is a family of fungi in the order Pezizales, within the class Pezizomycetes of the phylum Ascomycota. The best-known genus in the family is Morchella, the true morels. Members produce distinctive cup- or sponge-like fruiting bodies with a hollow stem and a cap that displays a honeycomb-like network of ridges and pits. The interior of the cap and stem is typically hollow.

Taxonomy and composition within Morchellaceae have varied as fungal classification has evolved. Traditionally the family included Morchella and related genera such as Verpa, but modern molecular phylogenetics has led to different treatments across sources. Some classifications retain Verpa in Morchellaceae, while others place Verpa or related forms in separate families. Because taxonomic circumscription can differ among references, the exact genera included in Morchellaceae may vary.

Ecology and distribution: Morchellaceae species are found in temperate regions worldwide. Morchella fruit bodies commonly appear in spring after rains, often in hardwood or mixed forests and sometimes in disturbed habitats such as recently burned ground. Many Morchellaceae species are associated with trees as ectomycorrhizal partners, though ecological roles can vary among species and genera.

Economy and safety: True morels are edible and highly prized for culinary use, but proper identification is important because look-alikes and toxic species require caution. Some species may require thorough cooking to neutralize compounds. Cultivation remains challenging, and most species are foraged rather than widely cultivated.

See also: morel, Pezizales, ascomycete fungi.