Approximately 75 percent of all fungi that have been described to date belong to the phylum Ascomycota. They are usually referred to as Ascomycetes and are commonly found and collected by mushroom enthusiasts. Ascomycetes exhibit a remarkable range of biodiversity, are beautiful and visually complex, and some, including morels and truffles, are highly prized for their edibility. Many play significant roles in plant ecology because of the mycorrhizal associations that they form. Thus it is remarkable that no book dedicated to describing and illustrating the North American Ascomycetes has been published in over sixty years.
Filling the gap between technical publications and the limited representation of Ascomycetes in general mushroom field guides, Ascomycete Fungi of North America is a scientifically accurate work dedicated to this significant group of fungi. Because it is impossible to describe and illustrate the tens of thousands of species that occur in North America, the authors focus on species found in the continental United States and Canada that are large enough to be readily noticeable to mycologists, naturalists, photographers, and mushroom hunters. They provide 843 color photographs and more than 600 described species, many of which are illustrated in color for the first time. While emphasizing macroscopic field identification characteristics for a general audience, the authors also include microscopic and other advanced information useful to students and professional mycologists. In addition, a color key to the species described in this book offers a visual guide to assist in the identification process.

Ascomycete Fungi of North America: A Mushroom Reference Guide (Corrie Herring Hooks Series)

Science & Math

Bessette, Alan E.

Beug, Michael

Bessette, Arleen R.

Biological Sciences

University of Texas Press

An illustrated key to identifying the mushrooms of the Cascadian bioregion, stretching from coastal Alaska to central California and Idaho, featuring nearly 1,100 full-color photographs and more than 3,000 species. In this unique and comprehensive field guide, mycologist Dr. Michael Beug helps mushroom hunters of all levels navigate an often bewildering array of species by clearly identifying features that separate one cluster from another. By answering simple questions (Does the mushroom have gills? Are there upward pointing tips like coral? Is the underside smooth or veined?) and consulting the carefully chosen, full-color photos, Dr. Beug leads you step by step through the process of successfully identifying your find. Covering gilled and non-gilled species, Chanterelles, Boletes, Amanitas, Agaricus, Psilocybe, and many, many more--and including descriptions of lookalikes and similar species--Mushrooms of Cascadia presents 3,000 species of mushrooms commonly found in the Pacific Northwest, with nearly 1,100 clarifying full-color photographs. With this invaluable guide, even beginner foragers can learn how to distinguish an edible (non-poisonous) series from a poisonous one. Whether you're seeking hallucinogenic or medicinal varieties, or hunting mushrooms for dyeing fabric or making tonight's dinner, this exceptionally useful guide will teach you how to quickly recognize what you find in the forest.

Mushrooms of Cascadia, Second Edition: An Illustrated Key to the Fungi of the Pacific Northwest

Health, Fitness & Dieting

Exercise & Fitness

Ten Speed Press+

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Books by Beug, Michael