Aspects of Tropical Mycology

Considers the role of fungi in the tropical ecosystem and their potential as a source of useful, novel compounds.

An important reference for biochemists, molecular biologists, ecologists, conservationists and pathologists alike, providing a synthesis of field and laboratory work from past and present studies, and emphasising directions for the future.The disappearing rain forest and damage to other tropical and subtropical habitats has recently provoked considerable public awareness and response from governmental and scientific bodies. Tropical fungi have received little attention to date and this volume aims to correct this deficit. Based on a meeting of the British Mycological Society, the book addresses the challenge which the exceptional diversity of tropical fungi present to taxonomists, biochemists, molecular biologists, ecologists and pathologists alike. The significance of the many tropical species and ectomycorrhizal associations in nutrient cycling in rainforests, desert ecosystems and aquatic habitats is considered, together with an evaluation of the potential of such fungi in the production of commercially useful, novel metabolites.