An Introduction to Fungi, 4th Edition

Publisher: Scientific Publishers
Language: English
Edition: 4th Edition
ISBN: 9788172338022
Pages: 603
Binding: Paperback
Year of Publication: 2024
Size: 5.75" x 8.75" x 1"
Weight: 520 gms

Book Description:
This book delves into the fascinating world of fungi, the organisms studied by mycologists. The classification of fungi has evolved significantly, with recent research in the last decade reshaping the understanding of their phylogeny. Fungi are now placed under three kingdoms: Fungi, Protozoa, and Chromista/Straminopila, due to their phylogenetic diversity. The major research projects, such as Deep Hypha and AFTOL (Assembling the Fungal Tree of Life), have provided a new phylogenetic classification based on genetic relatedness and DNA sequencing data. These fungi form distinct monophyletic groups, each with a common ancestor.

The classification developed by these studies and accepted by leading international journals and the Dictionary of Fungi (2008) forms the backbone of this book. Fascinatingly, fungi and animals are now considered sister groups, sharing a common ancestor, but no specific common name exists for them.

The book begins with a historical overview of mycology, reflecting on Louis Pasteur's famous quote, "History of science is science itself." It then presents 31 chapters that explore the structure and function of fungi, their symbiotic associations, chemical activities, secondary metabolites, mycotoxins, and much more. Exclusive chapters discuss complex topics such as heterothallism, parasexuality, and sex hormones in fungi. Each chapter concludes with a summary and test questions, making the book an indispensable resource for students in botany, microbiology, plant pathology, and medical mycology.