Although the genus Armillaria has been studied for over a century, the present knowledge base is confusing. For example, it is only recently that mycologists have accepted the fact that it comprises a number of species with distinct geographic ranges and pathogenicities. Therefore, this comprehensive publication fills an important need. As the editors point out in the preface, the objective of this work is to provide a synthesis of the state of knowledge of Armillaria spp. It covers the taxonomy, biology and physiology and also reviews resource impacts, dynamics and management of root diseases caused by this group of fungi.
Coverage is global and there are numerous references to Armillaria spp.
The book is divided into eleven individually authored chapters. The authorship reflects the worldwide scope of this publication and includes contributions from experts in Australia, Canada, England, Finland, France, Germany, New Zealand, Scotland and the United States. Each chapter is written in a readable, narrative style, accompanied by graphics, tables and black and white and colour photos of excellent quality. Also included is a long list of literature citations and scientific and common names of most of the plants referred to in the text. Biographical sketches of each of the authors are also included.