The specific interactions of fungi with plants include the mutually beneficial mycorrhizal symbioses and an increasing number of case studies, where endophytic fungi communicate with their host plant to allow for beneficial interactions. The omics methods development has allowed for a substantial increase in knowledge that emphasized in many cases the intricate interplay between the symbiotic partners. In addition to the direct interactions, the mycorrhizosphere comes into view, as the fungal soil mycelium is interacting with the community outside the host plant, transferring signals also to the host. This Research Topic encompasses research on both major types of mycorrhizal interactions, endo- and ectomycorrhiza, and includes communication with the environment in which both partners interact with soil microbes. The mycorrhizosphere is in the center of molecular biology and modern ecological research, greatly fostered by the possibilities of genetic manipulation.

An extensive yet readily comprehensible survey of the various aspects of applied mycology. An introduction to fungal physiology and genetics is followed by a discussion of applications in fungal biotechnology, both traditional and modern. Designed for practice, the individual chapters are structured according to a general pattern. The starting point is a specific scientific problem, followed by a short description of the corresponding products and their natural occurrences. There then follows an outline of current production methods, including the ones most commonly used, and a discussion of established as well as new approaches using alternative organisms. Finally, the experts look at research aims and potential developments. With 113 Figures and 20 Tables.