Tropical forests cover approximately 6% of the land surface of the earth and more than 30% of all forested areas on the entire planet. These forests are characterized by a very high level of diversity for the assemblages of organisms present. The overall diversity of tropical forests is higher than that of any other type of terrestrial ecosystem, yet the fungi and fungus-like organisms (basidiomycetes, ascomycetes, myxomycetes, and dictyostelids) associated with tropical forests remain understudied.Diversity of Fungi and Fungus-Like Organisms in Tropical Forests brings together information on these organisms obtained by scientists who are actively carrying out research in every region of the world where tropical forests occur. Among the major subject areas considered are ecology, biogeography, and taxonomy. Furthermore, information is provided on the use of certain fungi as food for humans and the potential of some fungi as sources of products of economic, pharmaceutical, or medical value.This book will be of great interest to students, teachers, and all who wish to learn more about the fungi and fungus-like organisms associated with tropical forests around the world.
