Introduction to Mycology in the Tropics. 2015. 211 (partly col.) figs. X, 366 p. 4to. Hardcover.

Introduction to Mycology in the Tropics is a key reference that provides critical information on all major groups of fungi found throughout the worlds tropical regions. It provides solid theoretical knowledge of tropical mycology presented in a logical, easy-to-use format for academics, professionals, and enthusiasts. Contrary to what the title suggests, Introduction to Mycology in the Tropics is not just for those studying mycology in the tropics. This comprehensive book applies to a wide range of disciplines,including phytopathology, medicine, naturalism, ecology, botany, zoology, chemistry, biotechnology, and food engineering.Mycologists and readers interested in related plant science disciplines will find basic knowledge on fungal diversity, enabling them to recognize fungal groups in the field, analyze cellular structures, and understand the ecological importance offungi. Those in the food engineering, biotechnology, and medical science disciplines can learn about edible and poisonous mushrooms, as well as medicinal and clinically important fungi used for antibiotics and other active compounds. Introduction to Mycology in the Tropics thoroughly covers Basidiomycota, Ascomycota, lichens, further groups of Fungi, Straminipila (Heterokonta), and slime molds. It offers details on their etymology, systematics, geographical distribution, ecology, morphology, life cycle, biochemical aspects, and importance for humans (positive and negative). In addition to thesesystematically organized chapters, special topics (e.g., fungi in symbiosis with social insects, mycorrhizae, ethnomycology, fungi pathogenic to humans) are presented in helpful call-out boxes. This books numerous color photographs offer stunning visual coverage of tropical fungi, their interactions with insects and other animals, and plant disease symptoms caused by fungi, helping readers to not only identify fungal groups, specific fungi, and fungus-like organisms but also interpret their interactions.