: Definitions of mycological terms and short accounts of higher taxa.
The dictionary has evolved significantly over ten editions to reflect the rapid progress in fungal science:
: Recent editions, such as the 9th and 10th, moved away from conservative classification to adopt molecular phylogenetics , which has drastically changed how orders and families are defined. Dictionary of the Fungi
The dictionary provides a comprehensive list of all fungal and lichen generic names. For every accepted genus, it details:
: Year of publication, distribution, and an estimate of the number of species. : Definitions of mycological terms and short accounts
The (officially Ainsworth & Bisby's Dictionary of the Fungi ) is widely considered the "Bible" of mycology. Since its first publication in 1943, it has served as the essential reference for the classification, nomenclature, and terminology of the fungal kingdom. Core Purpose & Scope
: Modern versions distinguish "true fungi" from chromistan and protistan "fungus-like" organisms (like water molds), placing them in their correct eukaryotic kingdoms. Significance in Research For every accepted genus, it details: : Year
For researchers and students, the book is a standard requirement because it summarizes vast amounts of literature into a single, workable system. It is often used alongside digital databases like Index Fungorum and Species Fungorum , which continue to update fungal names and classifications in real-time following the retirement of the book's long-term editors.