Fungi

A comprehensive account of the natural history of fungi, from their lifestyle, habitats and ecology to their uses for humans. This edition is exclusive to newnaturalists.com

How do we use fungi in medicine? How can we identify edible mushrooms? Brian Spooner and Peter Roberts are both widely respected experts in fungi from the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew. In this highly authoritative guide they examine all aspects of fungi, from their lifestyle and habitats to their diverse reproductive strategies. New Naturalist Fungi covers all aspects of the subject including:
The biology and evolution of fungiFungi as agents of growth and decayThe relation of fungi to man, mammals and parasitesTheir natural and man-made habitats
Exploring the rich variety of mushrooms and toadstools found living in woodlands, grasslands, coastlines, rivers, and man-made habitats such as compost heaps, this New Naturalist volume is packed with information covering virtually every aspect of fungi. There is even a section on fungi in folklore and how humans have used fungi for medicinal purposes. With practical tips on collecting, preserving and identifying fungi, this is an ideal reference guide for enthusiastic amateurs and professionals alike.

Reviews

'At last we have an accessible guide to the wonderland of Fungi… This is a fantastic book in every sense. Perhaps surprisingly, it's also an enjoyable read.'
BBC Wildlife Magazine

'It opens up a whole new kingdom… the dust jacket is wonderfully traditional… this book will stand as a remarkable volume in this much loved series.'
Natur Cymru

'This is the only book, to my knowledge, to review the full range of living fungi in good, accessible English… Spooner and Roberts deserve our gratitude for producing a book that takes field mycology into the new century without losing its roots in field study.'
British Wildlife Magazine

About the author

Brian Spooner is a mycologist at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. He has participated in field expeditions and biodiversity projects in Malaysia and Australia. He regularly leads forays for the British Mycological Society. He is the author of several books and numerous research papers. Peter Roberts is also a mycologist at Kew, who has organised and led forays for the Field Studies Council and the British Mycological Society in Britain and overseas. He is an editor of the journal Mycologist and author of numerous research papers and books.