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ARS Home » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #67499

Title: BIODIVERSITY OF TROPICAL MICROFUNGI:AN OVERVIEW

Author
item Rossman, Amy

Submitted to: Book Chapter
Publication Type: Book / Chapter
Publication Acceptance Date: 1/10/1996
Publication Date: N/A
Citation: N/A

Interpretive Summary: Microfungi include most of the fungi that cause diseases of plants as well as those that are useful in biological control of those diseases. Knowledge of the diversity of microfungi particularly in tropical regions is lacking. Because of this, our ability to control diseases caused by microfungi is limited. This chapter presents an overview of the diversity of microfungi that is considered to exist in tropical regions. The uses of these fungi are discussed, for example, as biological control agents of plant diseases and new sources of pharmaceuticals and industrial enzymes. Microfungi are also an important element in natural ecosystems in which they serve as the primary agents of nutrient cycling and control biomass productivity. This chapter contributes to an understanding of the vast diversity of invisible microfungi that are major components of both natural and agricultural ecosystems.

Technical Abstract: Microfungi in the tropics are relatively unknown, yet they probably constitute a majority of the fungi. This book brings together knowledge of tropical microfungi that, up to now, has been diffuse and difficult to attain. All chapters illustrate the untapped and diverse storehouse of fungi awaiting discovery.