The Genus Russula in Great Britain: with keys to species

Description:

This book provides the most comprehensive study of this genus in Britain to date. The principal authors, Geoffrey Kibby and Mario Tortelli, are both expert mycologists with considerable field experience. They previously collaborated in producing The Genus Cortinarius in Britain (2022). The other authors are Felix Hampe, who is a renowned world expert on the genus Russula, and Claudi V Soler, who is a mycologist with a special interest in DNA sequencing and microscopy.

With over 150 species in Britain, Russula species are some of the commonest and most beautiful fungi we see in our woodlands. Renowned for their often striking colours, unusual smells and tastes, they are also considered to be some of the most challenging fungi to identify. The culmination of 30 years of study, this book seeks to make them more accessible for identification purposes and for study.

The book includes over 500 photographs, micrographs, illustrations and new identification keys (diagnostic and synoptic). Taxonomy is based largely on DNA analysis, indeed this is the first book in English in which the DNA of almost every species described has been sequenced. Several species never previously illustrated are included. 20 species described are not found in the UK. A card insert with a spore colour chart is included with the book: this is an innovative feature that should prove a very useful tool.

Each species is presented in a double-page spread featuring colour photographs, a colour illustration, and micrographs of spores and hyphae, along with key identification features. Also noted are any macro chemicals needed and habitat where usually found, indicating the tree(s) commonly associated with the species. Each entry is also cross-referenced to the spore colour chart. Additional notes provide further detail and highlight the essential differences with superficially similar species.

Whilst essentially describing species found in Britain, the scope of the book extends beyond these shores, and will be found of interest and use to others elsewhere, particularly in Europe.