Revett, J. — British Earthstars

Jonathan Revett 160, 150 col photos + illus. . HB. NEW. . It has been 31 years since the last book was published that comprehensively dealt with the British species of earthstars (<i>British Puffballs, Earthstars and Stinkhorns</i>, Pegler et al., 1995). This book updates this important work, detailing the 19 accepted British species of earthstar: 17 in genus <i>Geastrum</i>; 1 in <i>Myriostoma</i>; 1 in <i>Astraeus</i>.Richly illustrated in colour throughout, the book introduces and explains the structure of an earthstar and the key features to look for. A synoptic key is given based on easy to recognise visual features which is also complimented by a dichotomous key.Each species is given a full macroscopic and microscopic description along with notes on habitat, distribution, key field characteristics, comparison to other species including European earthstars. A species photograph together with a distribution heat map is shown along with a high magnification photograph of the spores. Each species then has at least 6 further photographs showing (for example) different stages of growth along with close ups of other critical features.Four colour plates further compliment the species descriptions and then 13 non-British species are shown with accompanying notes.Not only does this update the earlier book by Pegler et al., but it is also a personal account of the author’s 50 years of field experience searching, finding and recording these incredible fungi centred around the productive area of East Anglia, a rich area for these uncommon to rare fungi.Written and designed to be accessible for both beginners and experienced mycologists alike or those who just have a general interest in these extraordinary fungi, this is a book that will further raise the profile of the wonderful world of earthstars.. [9781036996628]