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