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A Study of the Diversity and Distribution of Ascomycetes Across Selected Ecological Zones of Morocco
 
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University Ibn Tofail
 
 
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Nour ID ELHAKKAR   

University Ibn Tofail
 
 
Ecol. Eng. Environ. Technol. 2026; 1
 
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ABSTRACT
Fungi play a central role in terrestrial ecosystems, where they contribute to organic matter decomposition, nutrient cycling, and symbiotic interactions with plants. Among them, macro-ascomycetes remain under-documented in North Africa despite their ecological and biotechnological importance. The objective of this study was to investigate the diversity and ecological distribution of macro-ascomycetous fungi in Morocco, focusing on contrasting ecosystems ranging from Mediterranean cork oak and Eucalyptus forests to cedar forests of the Middle Atlas. Field surveys were conducted between 2007 and 2022 across six major regions (Mamora, Khmis-es-Sahel, Lalla Mimouna, Rif, Oulmes, and Middle Atlas). Sampling was carried out systematically along predefined transects during fruiting seasons. A total of 17 species belonging to 8 genera and 5 families were identified, including several taxa newly reported for Morocco or for the studied regions, such as Geopora arenosa, Otidea umbrina, and Peziza echinospora. Morphological analyses revealed a wide variety of traits related to their ecological strategies, ranging from saprotrophy on woody debris to possible ectomycorrhizal associations in forest soils. The results highlight both the richness of Moroccan macro-ascomycetes and the ecological specificity of certain taxa, particularly within the Pyronemataceae. This updated inventory provides the first integrative overview of macro-ascomycete diversity in these Moroccan habitats. It emphasizes the need for further research combining molecular tools and ecological approaches to clarify taxonomic boundaries and functional roles. Protecting forest ecosystems where these fungi occur is essential for preserving their biodiversity and the critical ecological processes they sustain.
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