The Order Mortierellales is a group of fungi within the phylum Mucoromycota, primarily consisting of soil-dwelling, saprophytic species that decompose organic matter. Members of this order are generally fast-growing, filamentous fungi with coenocytic (non-septate) hyphae and produce asexual spores called sporangiospores. Mortierellales play an important role in nutrient cycling, breaking down complex organic compounds in soil ecosystems. Some species are also studied for their ability to produce polyunsaturated fatty acids and other industrially relevant metabolites. They are widely distributed in terrestrial habitats and are considered ecologically significant decomposers.