Mycologists have been searching for a better system of classification of Fungi Imperfecti than that based on mature morphology. Taxonomy of Fungi Imperfecti documents an intensive phase of that search. It is largely an account of the proceedings of the First International Specialists' Workshop Conference on Criteria and Terminology in the Classification of Fungi Imperfecti held at the Environmental Sciences Centre of the University of Calgary, Kananaskis, Alberta. The invited contributors, all mycologists of international reputation, have had long experience with Fungi Imperfecti.
The first fifteen chapters follow the course of the conference: they reproduce the formal papers and the lively discussion which followed. Chapter 16 describes a new, experimental scheme of classification distilled from the conclusions reached at Kananaskis. Four chapters concerned with the application of this scheme and with a variety of techniques now being used to extend knowledge of the Fungi Imperfecti round out the volume. The text is illustrated throughout with numerous photographs and drawings.
In editing Taxonomy of Fungi Imperfecti, Professor Kendrick has given the text continuity by inserting short linking passages. The result is a readable and very informative account which conveys the unique atmosphere of this important conference.
Bryce Kendrick is a distinguished professor emeritus of biology at the University of Waterloo.