Truffles Diversity, Ecology and Biotechnology

Truffles are hypogeous ectomycorrhizal ascomycetous edible mushrooms distributed worldwide in terrestrial ecosystems, including deserts, as non-timber forest products. They are seasonal and have a short shelf life. Owing to their nutraceutical value, truffles are in high demand and valuable. Of the 180 or more species of truffles reported worldwide, only around 20 are commercially viable. Truffles: Diversity, Ecology and Biotechnology reviews the current advances in truffles from a historical perspective and covers ethnomycological profiles, habitats, ecology, geographical distribution, diversity, systematics, phylogeny, ultrastructure, sexual reproduction, cultivation, analytical techniques, and the impact of climate change and industrial applications on truffles. It also emphasizes the role of soil properties in the occurrence of truffles (e.g., Tuber spp.), their pathogens, product development and marketing. The contributors hail from academia and industries across the globe. Truffles are economically valued macro-fungi with numerous environmental, agricultural, and human health applications. They have attracted attention due to their ability to produce varied metabolites of basic, health and industrial significance.