Microascales

Microascales

The Microascales is an order of fungi within the class Sordariomycetes. This order is characterized by its members' ability to produce ascomata, which are fruiting bodies that contain the asci and ascospores. The Microascales are of particular interest in both medical and environmental contexts due to their diverse ecological roles and potential pathogenicity.

Taxonomy

The order Microascales is part of the phylum Ascomycota, which is known for its spore-producing structures called asci. Within the Microascales, there are several families, including:

• Microascaceae
• Halosphaeriaceae
• Ceratocystidaceae

Each family contains genera that are adapted to specific ecological niches, ranging from soil and decaying wood to marine environments.

Morphology

Members of the Microascales typically produce small, darkly pigmented ascomata. These structures can be perithecial or cleistothecial, meaning they can be flask-shaped with an opening or completely closed, respectively. The asci are usually unitunicate, meaning they have a single wall layer, and they release their ascospores through an apical pore or by rupture.

Ecology

Microascales fungi are found in a variety of habitats, including soil, decaying plant material, and aquatic environments. Some species are saprophytic, breaking down organic matter, while others are pathogenic to plants, animals, or humans. For example, species of the genus Pseudallescheria are known to cause infections in humans, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.

Pathogenicity

Certain species within the Microascales are clinically significant. For instance, Pseudallescheria boydii and its anamorph Scedosporium apiospermum are known to cause mycetoma, a chronic granulomatous disease, as well as other opportunistic infections. These fungi can be resistant to common antifungal treatments, making infections difficult to manage.

Industrial and Environmental Importance

Apart from their pathogenic potential, some Microascales fungi are important in industrial applications. They are involved in the biodegradation of pollutants and the production of enzymes used in various biotechnological processes. Their ability to degrade complex organic compounds makes them valuable in environmental cleanup efforts.

Also see

• Ascomycota
• Sordariomycetes
• Fungal morphology
• Fungal ecology
• Fungal pathogens