Abstract

In nature, the roots of most plants are colonized by symbiotic fungi to form mycorrhiza, which play a critical role in the capture of nutrients from the soil, and therefore in plant nutrition. Thirteen years have passed since the publication of the First Edition of Mycorrhizal Symbiosis, the book that has been generally acclaimed as the most definitive work on this fascinating topic. The Second Edition co-authored by Professor Sally Smith and Professor David Read has been completely rewritten to cover the significant advances in our understanding of this field.
Key Features
* Separate accounts of major mycorrhizal types, highlighting structure, development, physiology and ecology
* Integrative treatment, covering nutrient transport, roles of mycorrhizas in ecology, applications in man-made environments, and interactions with pollutants
* In depth treatment of evolutionary and developmental aspects, plus closer examination of external mycelium, and transport processes
* Appreciation of diversity of form and function within major mycorrhizal types, and its importance in ecosystems
reviews of the first edition
"...Of value to students and researchers alike.... An immensely scholarly work. The book will be essential reading for all students in the mycorrhizal discipline."
--NEW PHYTOLOGIST
"...A classic in its field. A most comprehensive and up-to-date review.... Compulsive reading...."
--JOURNAL OF ECOLOGY
"...Lucid writing, together with obvious enthusiasm for the subject, make this book pleasurable and stimulating to read. There is no doubt that it will indeed be essential reading for the increasing number of people studying mycorrhizals in many parts of the world..."
--THE BIOLOGISTS
"...It is difficult to see how this book could be bettered."
--SOCIETY OF GENERAL MICROBIOLOGY QUARTERLY
"This is a book that can be used by a wide readership, from students to researchers alike, to learn in detail about such a widespread symbiosis. The appeal to a relatively diverse audience is facilitated by the beautifully written text, the excellent figures and plates (only one has to see the cover for an example) and the way general principles are illustrated with sufficient but not overwhelming detail from the cited references. I was compelled to read further and further into the book by the synthesis of existing information followed by the large number of suggestions for future work.
In summary, this is a superb book. It must be the current seminal work on mycorrhizas and no mycologist or soil or plant ecologist should be without a copy. I am looking forward to the third edition!"
--JOURNAL OF ECOLOGY
"The volume's greatest strength lies in its depth of information, which allows the reader to at once equate aspects of different mycorrhizal associations, as in general themes section, whilst seeing their disparity. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and would recommend it to any with an interest in mycorrhizal research, whatever their level. Indeed, it would provide both informative and thought-provoking reading to those working on any aspect of plant, and especially root, biology, and should be considered an essential addition to the library."
-John D. James in PLANT GROWTH REGULATION