Through this volume we strive to synthesize the available information on the taxonomy, physiology, and life history of Armillaria spp. This material is further developed to clarify the impacts, dynamics, management, and control of the root diseases caused by various species of Armillaria in diverse natural and exotic forests, orchards, and amenity plantings throughout the world. The book begins with a discussion of the taxonomy and nomenclature of Armillaria species. Through this treatment, we not only learn how to correctly refer to these organisms but also discover why so much confusion has surrounded their taxonomy and nomenclature. This leads into chapter 2 wherein the conept and significance of biological species are explored as are the sexual patterns and life cycle of the fungus. The nutritional, biochemical, and physiological requirements of the fungus and the biochemical basis for its interactions with hosts are considered in chapter 3. Attributes of inoculum and the infection process are discussed in chapter 4. Disease symptoms and diagnosis, both on individual trees and in stands, are treated in chapter 5. Pathogenicity and various ways of assessing it are discussed in chapter 6. The next three chapters consider the role of stress factors in promoting disease and address disease development in natural forests and manmade plantations. Chapter 10 introduces mathematical modeling as a means to quantify disease development and to predict the consequences of various management actions. Chapter 11 presents management and control methods, including recent information on antagonistic organisms.
