Mortierellales

Mortierellales is an order of fungi in the class Mortierellomycetes. This order contains a single family, Mortierellaceae, and several genera, most notably Mortierella. Fungi within Mortierellales are typically found in soil and on decaying organic matter in terrestrial environments. They are saprophytic, meaning they obtain nutrients by decomposing dead organic material. Some species have also been isolated from aquatic environments.

The morphology of Mortierellales is characterized by septate hyphae, which are branched filaments that form the vegetative body of the fungus. A key feature is the formation of sporangiospores within sporangia, which are specialized reproductive structures. These sporangia are often borne on sporangiophores, which are stalks that elevate the sporangia. The sporangiospores are typically smooth-walled and hyaline to pigmented. Asexual reproduction is the primary mode of reproduction, although sexual reproduction in the form of zygospores has been observed in some species, though it is less common.

Members of Mortierellales play a role in nutrient cycling in ecosystems by breaking down complex organic compounds. Some species have been studied for their potential in bioremediation due to their ability to degrade certain pollutants. While generally considered ecologically important decomposers, a few species have occasionally been associated with opportunistic infections in immunocompromised individuals, though this is rare. Research continues to explore their ecological functions and biotechnological potential.