Microascaceae

Microascaceae is a family of fungi within the order Microascales, class Sordariomycetes, division Ascomycota. This family is characterized by its members' ability to produce ascomata, which are typically perithecial, and often have a darkly pigmented, hard outer wall. The family includes both saprophytic and pathogenic species, some of which are of medical and ecological importance.

Morphology

Members of the Microascaceae family typically form ascomata that are perithecial, meaning they are flask-shaped structures that contain the asci and ascospores. The ascomata are often darkly pigmented and have a tough, carbonaceous texture. The asci are usually unitunicate, meaning they have a single wall layer, and they release their spores through an apical pore or slit.

The ascospores are often ellipsoidal to cylindrical in shape and may have various ornamentations on their surface, such as ridges or spines. These spores are typically released into the environment where they can germinate and form new fungal colonies.

Ecology

Microascaceae fungi are found in a variety of habitats, including soil, decaying plant material, and animal dung. Some species are known to be saprophytes, decomposing organic matter and playing a role in nutrient cycling. Others are pathogens of plants, animals, or humans.

Notably, some species within this family, such as those in the genus Pseudallescheria, are known to cause mycoses in humans, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. These infections can range from superficial skin infections to more severe systemic diseases.

Pathogenicity

Certain species within the Microascaceae family are opportunistic pathogens. For example, Pseudallescheria boydii and its anamorph Scedosporium apiospermum are known to cause a range of infections in humans, including mycetoma, keratitis, and pulmonary infections. These infections are often difficult to treat due to the fungi's resistance to common antifungal drugs.

Taxonomy

The family Microascaceae was first described by Luttrell and later revised by Malloch. It includes several genera, some of which are:

• Microascus
• Pseudallescheria
• Scedosporium
• Petriella

Research and Importance

Research on Microascaceae is important for understanding fungal biodiversity, ecology, and the mechanisms of fungal pathogenicity. Studies on the antifungal resistance of pathogenic species are crucial for developing effective treatments for infections caused by these fungi.

Also see

• Ascomycota
• Sordariomycetes
• Fungal morphology
• Fungal pathogens
• Mycoses

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