This second edition has been extended to include new information and developments in the preservation of fungi but maintains the coverage of methodology as presented in the first edition published in 1983. The book enables readers to select suitable preservation procedures for their purposes, gives information on the growth and maintenance of fungi and provides the background to manage a collection of microorganisms both safely and effectively. The methods described are those in operation or experimented upon at IMI, and cover the simple to the more complex techniques. The methods listed are of use in all situations where living cultures of fungi are required, from teaching and research to industry and technology.

A significant portion of basic and applied life science research requires microorganisms as study specimens. Managing Microorganisms aims to be the standard reference for anyone who works with microorganisms, primarily bacteria and fungi. It is applicable to researchers who maintain their own collections of strains, and those who use one of the many public service culture collections. Managing Microorganisms is an essential reference for anyone working with microorganisms and culture collections. In addition, it will be of great use for academic researchers and students in applied life sciences, especially those who are involved in sourcing and maintaining reference strains, whilst it also will provide a useful guide for consultants, biotechnologists and other members of bioindustry.

This text not only explores the breeding problems for Agaricus bisporus, the button mushroom, but approaches the subject in the context of the large range of edible mushrooms which are currently under commercial cultivation worldwide. From the background and general objectives of culture collection and breeding to the genetic systems of edible mushrooms and the molecular biological approaches to breeding, the coverage is in-depth and current. The applications of breeding programmes for specific purposes, including provision of a food source, production of high value fungal metabolites and upgrading of lignocellulosic wastes and wastewater treatment are also discussed.

This essential handbook for student and practicing plant pathologists has been thoroughly reorganized and updated since the publication of the second edition in 1983. The new edition includes: rearrangement of topics to facilitate use; 49 short succinct chapters, each providing valuable practical information; new topics such as landmarks in plant pathology, survey of sampling procedures, disease evaluation, effects of climate change, biochemical and molecular techniques, epidemic modelling, breeding for resistance, laboratory safety and electronic databases; seven overall sections covering disease recognition and evaluation, causation, diagnosis, investigation, control, general techniques, and presentation of results.