The Ecology of the Larger Fungi: Constancy and Frequency of Fungal Species in Relation to Certain Vegetation Communities, Particularly Oak and Beech

SUMMARY The paper is an investigation into the ecological distribution of the larger fungi with the object of determining the relationship between fungi and vegetation with particular reference to oak woods and beech woods. Previous literature is briefly summarized. The experimental method is described. Results of observations over a period of 5 years on five different vegetation communities are presented from the respective standpoints of (a) constancy of species, and (6) frequency of individuals. The fungus floras associated with oak woods and beech woods have been dealt with in greater detail and lists of characteristic species have been given for each of the two communities. An attempt has been made to show the relation between fungal species and ecological types of oak woods and beech woods. The results have been briefly discussed and suggestions for future work have been put forward.