The Fascinating World of Fungi introduces fungi and their importance in sustaining all life on Earth. People have had intimate associations with fungi for millennia. But most of us are unaware how heavily we rely on fungi in the form of countless everyday products that use them and the chemicals they produce. Fungi have a long history of association with death, decay and dark forces. But contrary to this negative image fungi are at the heart of crucial ‘life-support’ processes. For example, decomposition releases nutrients for reuse – fungi really are the ultimate recyclers. Filled with images of the extraordinary diversity and beauty of fungi, this revised and updated book provides a fascinating introduction to a group of organisms whose lifestyle means they remain largely out of sight, overlooked and forgotten. The reality is that there is much for which fungi should be thanked.

The Fascinating World of Fungi introduces fungi and their importance in sustaining all life on Earth. People have had intimate associations with fungi for millennia. But most of us are unaware how heavily we rely on fungi in the form of countless everyday products that use them and the chemicals they produce. Fungi have a long history of association with death, decay and dark forces. But contrary to this negative image fungi are at the heart of crucial ‘life-support’ processes. For example, decomposition releases nutrients for reuse – fungi really are the ultimate recyclers. Filled with images of the extraordinary diversity and beauty of fungi, this revised and updated book provides a fascinating introduction to a group of organisms whose lifestyle means they remain largely out of sight, overlooked and forgotten. The reality is that there is much for which fungi should be thanked.