This book has passed through a number of editions each involving some modifications while retaining the general character of the first. The most substantial changes occurred in the fifth (1983), but that is now out-of-date. Mycology has not been immune from the rapid evolution of biology in the past decade and the preparation was a long way beyond the capacity of the older writer (C.T.I.). So a younger one (H.J.H.) has collaborated with him. Substantial changes have been made throughout, particularly in relation to taxonomy but in general Chapters 1-7 have undergone relatively little revision. However, this is not true of Chapters 8-12 where the influence of the younger author is paramount. The basic idea of the book remains, namely to present fungi as living organisms profoundly affecting the lives of other kinds of living organisms, especially Man. Their study is of the greatest importance and what is more it is great fun. Many of the diagrams have been retained, but some have been redrawn and new ones added. Weare pleased to acknowledge the patience and artistic skills of Mrs Lindsay J. Wilson in producing these. Some coloured plates have also been introduced from photographs taken by H.J .H.

This reference book includes 24 chapters written by a group of experts in the different fields of microfungi and cover a broad range of topics on microfungi. It provides the most updated information on the latest development in systematics and taxonomy of microfungi, new techniques which were developed in the last ten years and their application in microfungal research. After the International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi, and plants (Melbourne Code) was adopted by the Eighteenth International Botanical Congress Melbourne, Australia, July 2011, it has had a profound impact on mycology and its research. Fungal nomenclature changes and its significance to fungal taxonomy and naming of microfungi in the future is discussed in detail. Since dual names system for fungi developing both sexual and asexual states, and fungi developing only asexual state is no longer available, the first five chapters will clarify some confusion and provides perspective views on the direction for future research. The next nine chapters cover microfungi and their ecological roles or functions in the different habitats (air, indoor, aquatic, marine, plants, soils, etc). The remaining 13 chapters cover the relationship of microfungi and humans (good and bad) and usage or application microfungi in different industries, such as food, agriculture, forestry, green technology, pharmaceutics, and medicine, as well as in our daily life. The book bridges the gap between basic mycological research and applied mycology and provide readers a unique set of information and knowledge of microfungi generated from multiple angles in different fields of mycology.

First published by Cambridge University Press in 1991, this book introduces fungi to readers from an ecological viewpoint, emphasising the ecological diversity and extreme versatility of the fungi. The introductory chapter covers fungal structure, growth and reproduction. The remaining chapters consider the fungi in their ecological roles, for example as decomposers of leaves, inhabitants of aquatic environments and as mutualistic symbionts in mycorrhiza and with insects. The intention is to treat fungi in terms of their adaptations to the ecosystems that they occupy. Although fungi as soil inhabitants are not included, much of their ecological significance is considered elsewhere, for example in the chapters on fungi as decomposers of leaves and wood. Examples given are worldwide, including from tropical countries, and the book is well illustrated with many original illustrations drawn from living material.

Comprehensive coverage includes not only discussion of traditional and essential material, and classification and procedures for identification, but also the new science of gene cloning and the use of fungi as hosts in recombinant DNA technology. The Fungi is an essential text for students of microbiology and plant science, and an important reference for those with an interest in this fascinating class of microorganism.

The Fungi, Third Edition, offers a comprehensive and thoroughly integrated treatment of the biology of the fungi. This modern synthesis highlights the scientific foundations that continue to inform mycologists today, as well as recent breakthroughs and the formidable challenges in current research. The Fungi combines a wide scope with the depth of inquiry and clarity offered by three leading fungal biologists. The book describes the astonishing diversity of the fungi, their complex life cycles, and intriguing mechanisms of spore release. The distinctive cell biology of the fungi is linked to their development as well as their metabolism and physiology. One of the great advances in mycology in recent decades is the recognition of the vital importance of fungi in the natural environment. Plants are supported by mycorrhizal symbioses with fungi, are attacked by other fungi that cause plant diseases, and are the major decomposers of their dead tissues. Fungi also engage in supportive and harmful interactions with animals, including humans. They are major players in global nutrient cycles. This book is written for undergraduates and graduate students, and will also be useful for professional biologists interested in familiarizing themselves with specific topics in fungal biology. Describes the diversity of the fungi, their life cycles, and mechanisms of spore release Highlights the study of fungal genetics and draws upon a wealth of information derived from molecular biological research Explains the cellular and molecular interactions that underlie the key roles of fungi in plant diversity and productivity Elucidates the interactions of fungi with other microbes and animals Highlights fungi in a changing world Details the expanding uses of fungi in biotechnology

Classification of symbiotic fungi. Fungi the capture microscopic animals. Endosymbiotic fungi of microscopic animals. Fungi that attack insects. Fungi of larger invertebrates and vertebrates. Neutral fungi. Mutualistic symbioses with insects. Facultative necrotrophs. Biotrophs. Obligate necrotrops and hemibiotrophs. Ectomycorrhizas. Endomycorrhizas. Lichens. Antagonisms between fungi.