This illustrated guide divides into three parts - an introduction, directory and look at the future of fungi. The introduction explains what mushrooms and toadstools are, discusses the various theories of their origins and the techniques required for their collection, examination and identification. The directory includes systematic classification of the commonest and most important types of fungi, together with illustrations to aid identification and interesting details of each fungi's status, habitat, structure and reproduction. Finally mushroom survival is considered, the often parasitic feeding habits of fungi, the way they adapt to many external threats and how they grow in, and colonize, incredibly diverse habitats.