Evolution of Fungi and Fungal-Like Organisms

Sequence analyses of fungal genomes have revealed extensive insights into phylogenetic relationships, gene distribution, and inferred functions across the fungal kingdom. This 2nd edition of "The Mycota, Vol. 14" explores major aspects of fungal evolution, including evolutionary roots, pathogenic strategies, mutualistic interactions, and metabolism. Fungi are ancient eukaryotic groups with important roles as pathogens and mutualists. The book aims to better understand the history, importance, and characteristics of fungi, as well as their distinct pathogenicity strategies and mutualistic interactions. It will be valuable to mycologists, evolutionary biologists, fungal geneticists, microbiologists, and mycology students.

Format: Hardback
Length: 322 pages
Publication date: 12 August 2023
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

Over the past two decades, extensive sequence analyses of numerous fungal genomes have shed light on the intricate phylogenetic relationships within the fungal kingdom and the distribution of genes and their inferred functions across this vast domain. This breakthrough has enabled us to answer previously challenging questions about the origin and evolution of fungi with remarkable analytical precision.

In this fully revised and updated second edition of "The Mycota, Vol. 14," we delve into the major aspects of fungal evolution. The book is organized into four sections, covering the following key topics:

• Evolutionary Roots of Fungi: This section explores the historical origins and diversification of fungi, shedding light on their ancient lineage and the evolutionary processes that have shaped their unique characteristics.

• Evolution of Pathogenic Strategies: Fungi are notorious for their ability to cause diseases in plants and animals. This section examines the evolution of pathogenic strategies employed by fungi, including the development of virulence factors, resistance mechanisms, and host-specific adaptations.

• Evolution of Mutualistic Interactions: Fungi have a profound impact on various ecosystems, forming mutually beneficial relationships with other organisms. This section explores the evolution of mutualistic interactions between fungi and other organisms, such as plants, animals, and microorganisms, and their ecological significance.

• Evolution of Metabolism and Development in Fungi: Metabolism is a fundamental aspect of life, and fungi exhibit a remarkable diversity of metabolic processes. This section examines the evolution of metabolism in fungi, including the development of specialized pathways for the synthesis of bioactive compounds, such as mycotoxins, antibiotics, and other metabolites with interspecific activity.

Fungi, as one of the oldest eukaryotic groups in the living world, hold immense historical and ecological significance. This book aims to enhance our understanding of fungi, their unique characteristics, and their pivotal role in shaping the world around us. By exploring the evolution of fungi, we gain insights into the processes that have shaped the diversity of life on Earth and the complex interactions between different organisms.

This volume will be of great interest to mycologists, evolutionary biologists, and researchers in fields such as microbiology, genetics, and ecology. It provides a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of fungal evolution, covering a wide range of topics and presenting the latest research findings in a clear and accessible manner.

Weight: 939g
Dimension: 254 x 178 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031291982
Edition number: 2nd ed. 2023