Patterns in Fungal Development

Description

The theory of pattern formation, assumed to be applicable to all multicellular organisms, has been developed largely through the study of animal, and to a lesser extent, plant systems. Fungi, members of the third major kingdom of eukaryotes, have not featured in these studies, although much research of fungal morphology has been undertaken with taxonomic intentions. This first account of the developmental biology of fungal morphogenesis considers whether evidence exists for the action of pattern forming mechanisms in the development of fungal structures. Chapters on the fruit body, on a range of aspects of the hyphae and the mycelium, and on genetic control and nuclear events in morphogenesis provide new insights into the mechanisms used in fungal construction. Aimed at developmental biologists as well as mycologists, the terminology has been kept as simple as possible to make the volume accessible to the widest audience.

' ... a good accessible book for advanced undergraduates and their seniors, which sets out an area of great opportunity in modern microbiology.' Chris Thurston, Biologist ' ... some very readable chapters on diverse topics in fungal development that have not been extensively reviewed elsewhere ... the book is a useful addition to the compact bookshelf of the mycologist specializing in physiology and development.' Nicholas P. Money, Bioscience 'This book fills a need both for advanced students of mycology and for workers in the field of fungal morphogenesis. It is well produced with good illustrations and should be in every responsible botanical library.' N. Robertson, Annals of Botany