Newsletters

The primary function of the Newsletter of the Asian Mycological Committee (AMC) is to inform members of mycological-related activities within the region served by the Committee. While only a restricted range of items make up this first issue, the ultimate aim is to create a  recognised and sought-after source of information for mycologists everywhere. Future editions are expected to contain major feature articles, a `letters column'  for members to express their personal views on various matters relating to the role of  AMC and its future development, and any other sections that members would like to see included and to which they may wish to contribute.

Clearly, the success of the Newsletter in fulfilling its primary role will depend for the most part on individual mycologists and the input they provide. Only if this is forthcoming will the success of the exercise be assured. Therefore, send your contributions to your AMC representatives (contact information is provided below). To help the editorial process, please ensure that you follow the standard formats (e.g. publications, conference announcements, book releases, etc.) as used in this issue and, whenever possible, provide a computer diskette with your contribution (Microsoft Word or Word Perfect preferred).

Profiles of Committee Members

Professor Zuei Ching CHEN (Taiwan)

Professor Chen is Professor of Botany at the National Taiwan University (NTU) in Taipei. He obtained his B.S. from NTU, and M.S. and Ph.D degrees from the State University of New York at Syracuse before joining the faculty of NTU in 1971. His research interests include: rust fungi of forest trees and grasses, wood decay fungi and their applications, the cultivation of lignicolous edible fungi, mycorrhizae of natural plant communities, aerobiology of fungal spores, host-parasite interactions in diseases of forest trees, molecular taxonomy of fungi, and the taxonomy of the Aphyllophorales. He is also engaged in a general floristic survey of Formosan fungi. Professor Chen is a member of the International Mycological Association and the International Association of Aerobiology, and is currently the Chairman of the Asian Mycological Committee.

Dr. Tricita H. QUIMIO (Philippines)

Dr. Tricita H. Quimio is a professor at the Department of Plant Pathology, University of the Philippines at Los Baños (UPLB). She obtained her MS from the University of Florida and PhD from North Carolina State University. Since returning to the Philippines in the early 1970's after her graduate studies abroad, she has introduced new mycology courses at her institute, supervised 36 graduate students both from the Philippines and from other Asian countries, and served as visiting professor to universities abroad acting as co-adviser and graduate committee member for mycology students at universities in Pakistan, India and Hong Kong. Mycology courses in many universities in the Philippines and Thailand are now taught by her former students. She has published over 100 papers and other works including several standard reference books on tropical fungi. A manual entitled "Illustrated Genera and Species of Plant Pathogenic Fungi in the Tropics",written with Dr. Hanlin of the University of Georgia, will be published shortly.

Aside from taxonomy, Dr. Quimio continues to conduct research on the cultivation of tropical mushrooms and, in 1980, she organized a UNESCO-sponsored regional workshop on mushroom cultivation in Manila. She was also instrumental in establishing in 1980 the International Mushroom Society for the Tropics, and the Philippine Mushroom Society in 1988. She founded a Mushroom Mycelial Bank for the Tropics, heads a Mushroom Training and Demonstration Unit, serves as a scientific adviser on mushrooms for the International Foundation for Science in Sweden, and is a international consultant for the FAO in Rome assisting in the development of research and extension programmes. Dr Quimio also re-established the mycological herbarium destroyed during World War II. The herbarium, now a component of the UPLB Museum of Natural History, contains over 10,000 specimens, some of which date back to the 1890's.

Dr. Jin-Torng PENG (Taiwan)

Dr Peng is Chief of the Department of Plant Pathology, Taiwan Agricultural Research Institute. His main research interests are: (a) survey, identification, sexuality, interfertility, cryopreservation of Gandoerma species in Taiwan; (b) survey, identification and cryopreservation of wild mushrooms in Taiwan; and (c) cultural improvement of edible mushrooms, such as Agaricus bisporus and Pleurotus spp. (including Pleurotus eryngii and Pleurotus cystidiosus.)

Dr. Sumalee PICHYANGKURA (Thailand)

Dr Pichyangkura is a professor in the Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University. She received her B.Sc degree from Chulalongkorn University and then moved to Michigan State University to undertake postgraduate studies in Medical Mycology with Professor E.S. Beneke. After receiving an M.S degree, and in 1974 a Ph.D, she returned to Thailand to teach and conduct research at Chulalongkorn University. Her research and expertise covers several areas of interest including: solid-state fermentation systems for enzyme production, ubiquinone detection systems, identication of mushrooms, and fungal protoplast fusion. She has organised international conferences held in Bangkok and supported by UNESCO and the International Mycological Association, and has been a visiting scientist to Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyushu Universities in Japan, the University of Innsbruck in Austria, and The Chinese University of Hong Kong.

Professor John A. BUSWELL (Hong Kong)

Professor Buswell is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Biology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong. He received his B.Sc. and Ph.D degrees from the University of Birmingham, United Kingdom and, before moving to Hong Kong in 1990, has held posts in universities and research institutions in the UK, United States, Sweden and France. His major research interests are: fungal-mediated biodegradation and bioconversion of lignocellulose; mushroom nutriceuticals; mushroom biotechnology; food microbiology; and microbial degradation of xenobiotics. He is currently Co-Director, Hong Kong MIRCEN; Deputy Director, UNIDO-Chinese University of Hong Kong Centre for International Services to Mushroom Biotechnology; Secretary/Treasurer, World Society for Mushroom Biology and Mushroom Products (WSMBMP); and Editor of theWSMBMP Bulletin.

Professor B.C. LODHA (India)

Professor Lodha is currently Head of the Department of Plant Pathology, Rajasthan Agriculture University. After obtaining his Ph.D degree from Rajasthan University, he joined the faculty of the University in 1964 as Assistant Professor in the Department of Botany. After returning from the University of Toronto where he was a postdoctoral fellow, he was Associate Professor in Plant Pathology at Haryana Agricultural University before his appointment in 1984 to Professor of Plant Pathology at Rajasthan Agricultural University. His major research interests focus on the ecology and systematics of ascomycete and hyphomycete fungi, and on the biological control of soil borne plant pathogens. He is a past Vice-President and President of the Mycological Society of India, a previous member of the International Mycological Association, and is currently a member of the International Committee on Plant Pathology Teaching and Training. He has published over 30 scientific papers and written several book chapters on mycological topics, and has undertaken numerous academic visits to universities and research institutes in North America, Europe, Japan and Australia. 

Dr. Jian-Yun ZHUANG (China)

Dr Zhuang graduated from Fujian Agricultural College in 1970 with a degree in Plant Protection, and in 1984 received his Ph.D from the Graduate School of the Academia Sinica. He is currently Research Professor at the Institute of Microbiology, Academia Sinica, Beijing, and is a deputy director of the Scientific Council of the Systematic Mycology and Lichenology Laboratory (SMLL) located at the Institute. His major research interests relate to taxonomic and biogeographical studies of Chinese rust fungi and he has published over 60 papers on rust taxonomy. He is currently a Member of the Executive Council of the Mycological Association of China, Deputy Editor-in-Chief of Acta Mycologia Sinica, and a Member of the Editorial Board for Cryptogamic Flora of China.

Dr Djafar ERSHAD (Iran)

Dr Ershad is currently Head of the Department of Botany and Research Scientist at the Plant Pest and Diseases Research Institute, Tehran, and also holds a teaching post at the Tarbiat Modares University in Tehran. He is a Member of the Agricultural Branch of the Iranian Academy of Sciences, serves on the Committee for Agriculture, Scientific Research Council of Iran, and is a

Member of the Editorial Board of the Iranian Journal of Plant Pathology. He has published over 60 papers in mycology and plant pathology, and is the author of the book, "Fungi of Iran".

IRAN

Plant Pests and Diseases Institute (PPDRI), Tehran

The Plant Pests & Diseases Research Institute (PPDRI) was established as government specialist institute in 1943. The Institute is made up of ten departments including the Department of Botany which was officially founded in 1967 and now consists of three sparate sections including Mycology. The Mycological Section employs six scientific and three technical staff who work on the taxonomy of major fungal groups. The section's major task is to collect and identify the fungi of Iran, especially plant pathogens. The section also has a herbarium which forms part of "Herbarium Ministerii Iranici Agriculturae-IRAN" and contains about 10,000 specimens of ascomycete, basidiomycete, deuteromycete and oomycete fungi.

TAIWAN

Mycological Section of the National Museum of Natural Science, Taipei

The Mycological Section was established in 1991 and currently employs three research staff. It holds over 4,600 specimens (mostly basidiomycetes and ascomycetes) including ca 400 living cultures representing approximately 250 species of mainly wood decaying fungi. Copies of the following recent publications emanating from the Section are available on request:

1. Wu, S.H. 1995. A study of the genus Phanerochaete (Aphyllophorales) with brown subicular hyphae. Mycotaxon 54: 163-172.

2. Chang, T.T. and W.N. Chou. 1995. Antrodia cinnamomea sp. nov. on Cinnamomum kanehirai in Taiwan. Mycol. Res. 99: 756-758.

3. Wang, Y.Z. 1995. Notes on coprophilous discomycetes from Taiwan II. Bull. Nation. Mus. Nat. Sci. 5: 147-152.

4. Wu, S.H. & C. Losi. 1995. Phanerochaete parvispora sp. nov. (Aphyllophorales) from Venetian Lagoon, Italy. Mycotaxon 55: 543-545.

5. Wu, S.H. 1995. Two new genera of corticioid basidiomycetes with gloeocystidia and amyloid basidiospores. Mycologia 87: 886-890.

6. Wu, S.H. & W.N. Chou. 1995. Four Basidiomycotina new to Taiwan. Bull. Nation. Mus. Natu. Sci. 6: 139-146.

7. Wu, S.H. 1995. Twelve species of the Aphyllophorales new to Taiwan. Fungi. Sci. 10: 9-22.

8. Wu, S.H. 1996. Studies on Gloeocystidiellum sensu lato (Basidiomycotina) in Taiwan. Mycotaxon 58

Mushroom Research Laboratory, Taiwan Agricultural Research Institute 

The Mushroom Research Laboratory has five senior staff, four project assistants and two technicians. The main topics of research are:

(a) breeding of edible mushrooms, including Agaricus bisporus, Lentinula edodes, Pleurotus spp., Agrocybe sp., Auricularia spp. and Tricholoma giganteum; (b) cultivation of edible mushrooms; (c) taxonomy of wild mushrooms and Ganoderma spp.; and (d) cryopreservation of the living cultures of wild mushrooms, Ganoderma spp. and commercial edible mushrooms.

CHINA

The Systematic Mycology and Lichenology Laboratory, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing

China-Japan Pan Asia Pacific Mycology Forum
28 July – 15 August 2008

Approximately two hundred mycologists from about 17 countries attended this meeting although the majority was from China and about 65 from Japan; the rest comprised a sprinkling form other countries (Canada, Malaysia, Thailand). Li Ju was the conference initiator and with his team did a good job at arranging the meeting. The opening ceremony was very formal and the first day comprised nine keynote speakers, the first being the Chinese Academician, Jiangchun Wei. The conference lasted four days with topics on mycotoxins, edible and medicinal mushrooms, medical mycology, phylogeny and taxonomy of fungi, ecology of fungi and molecular biology and genetics. There were workshops on Identification of slime molds, rust fungi, powdery mildews and clinically important fungi. One nice aspect was the students’ oral presentation contest which gave young mycologists a chance to present their research findings.

The week gave mycologists a chance to network and plan future collaboration particularly in the Asian region. Participants were also able to listen to some stimulating and cutting edge research presentations, as well as some old repeated rehashed research presentations. Overall a good event that was well worth attending.

The Systematic Mycology & Lichenology Laboratory (SMLL) was established in 1985.

The Laboratory is an academic research institution where scientists both from within China and from overseas can conduct fungal and lichen-related research. Both Chinese and foreign researchers may submit applications to the Laboratory in accordance with the "Guidelines for Applying to SMLL for Research Projects" formulated by the Laboratory. Following approval of a project proposal by the Academic Council, successful applicants are able to work in, and receive research funds from, the Laboratory. Foreign researchers are financially supported by the Laboratory on a reciprocal exchange basis. Chinese and foreign mycologists and lichenologists who are supported by their own institutes are also welcome to conduct their own research at the SMLL. In order to provide basic information for a deeper understanding of modern life sciences, for exploitation and utilization of fungal resources as well as for the control of harmful fungi, the Laboratory's research is directed to the comprehensive study of natural systems and the evolution of myceteae (including myxomycetes, oomycetes, lichenized and non-lichenized fungi). Species diversity among fungi is examined from all angles including morphology, anatomy, ecology, physiology, biochemistry, genetics and biogeography, and at all levels (e.g. population biology, ontogeny, cytology, molecular biology). Research in the following areas currently receive support: molecular evolutionary systematics of the myceteae; cellular systematics of the myceteae; studies on endangered species or groups among the myceteae which are of economic importance and have potential applications; studies of systematic problems related to myceteae which require immediate resolution in the context of applied research and practice; the utilization, preservation and taxonomy of important mycological resources; novel methods in the study of myceteae systematics and related ecosystem problems. The organizational structure of the SMLL includes a Laboratory Director and Deputy Director, and a Scientific Council which consists of a Council Director and Deputy Director together with several Council Members. Since 1988, the SMLL has produced an official publication, Mycosystema, which is co-edited by Chinese and foreign experts and carries papers on the systematics and evolution of fungi.

Herbarium Mycolgicum Academiae Sinicae (HMAS) The Herbarium is a national collection of fungi founded in 1953. The collections include all those (except lichens) previously held in the Mycological & Phytopathological Herbarium of Qinghua University, Fungus Section of the Herbarium of the Institute of Botany, former National Academy of Peiping. The herbarium is funded by a direct grant and is under the auspices of the Special Foundation for Taxonomic and Floral & Faunal Studies, Academia Sinica. A total of 120000 specimens have been catalogued including ca. 2000 type specimens, representing 17000 species belonging to 2300 genera (including synonyms). In addition, there are some 250,000 items which are still unnamed. Groups represented include the larger basidiomycetes, discomycetes, plant parasitic fungi, and lichens. Some dried cultures of microfungi are also deposited. The large majority of specimens are from China, and some 30,000 foreign specimens originate from 105 countries. About 1500-3000 specimens are added each year. The Herbarium maintains a considerable number of duplicate specimens which are available in exchange for named specimens from other countries. The exchange of specimens is made frequently with a number of herbaria located in Europe, U.S.A., Canada, Japan, New Zealand, and elsewhere.Further information can be obtained from: Associate Research Professor Guo Lin, Curator, Herbarium Mycolgicum Academiae Sinicae (HMAS), Institute of Microbiology, Academia Sinica, Beijing 100080, China.

SINGAPORE

The School of Biological Sciences, The National University of Singapore

Mycology is taught in the School of Biological Sciences under the subject heading of Plant Biology. In the first two years/levels of undergraduate study, the fungi constitute small components of three Plant Biology modules, namely Economic Botany, Plant Biodiveristy, and Plant Ecology (under plant-microbe interactions). In the final/third level of study leading to the first degree (B.Sc.), Mycology is offered as a full 50-hour optional module along with other Plant Biology courses. At this level. mycology is a popular choice with between 60-70% of students normally opting to take the module. The course focuses on fungal classification, ecology and some aspects of physiology, and includes six 3-hr laboratory classes/field trips. The role of fungi as plant pathogens is taught as part of another third year/level module, Plant Pathology, which includes a more extensive coverage of plant viruses. For the B.Sc. Honours Botany Degree (fourth year/level of study), Mycology is again offered as a full optional Plant Biology module. Here, the emphasis is on fungal physiology including growth and reproduction. Usually, about 50-60% of eligible students opt for this module. Honours students are also required to undertake a research project of about six months duration in a chosen area of plant biology. Mycological and fungal plant disease projects are usually popular.　

The School has a well-equipped research laboratory for mycology and plant pathology (fungal pathogens). The current batch of Honours and postgraduate students are conducting research on marine fungi, fungal airspora, fungal enzymes, fungal chitosan, mycorrhiza, and plant diseases caused by Pseudocercospora and Ganoderma species. Collaborations with other specialists within the School (with expertise in biochemistry, plant pathology, molecular biology, and developmental biology) and in other departments/faculties (chemistry, paediatrics), has permitted a wide range of fungal-related studies to be undertaken. Teaching and research in mycology within the School is supported by a small culture collection built up over many years. Current M.Sc. and Ph.D students of mycology include nationals from China, India and Malaysia with good first degrees and proficiency in English. Their studies are supported by studentships/scholarships from the National University of Singapore. Requests for application forms for postgraduate studies should be directed to: The Registrar, National University of Singapore, Kent Ridge Road, Singapore 119260. 

MALAYSIA

The Tropical Mycological Laboratory, Department of Botany, University of Malaysia.

Since its inauguaration, the Laboratory has been host to many prominent mycologists the world over who have visited on short attachments, during specimen collection trips, or for the purpose of conducting research. The visits have led to the establishment of many jointly-funded collaborative research projects. The Laboratory is well-equipped and is used for the training of undergraduate and postgraduate (M.Phil., Ph.D) students in both basic and applied mycology and in plant biology. The facility also runs short courses on various topics including culture collection techniques, mycological methods, and the use and maintenance of the electron microscope. Many of these courses are conducted in collaboration with overseas experts, and are normally open to staff of other local universities and research institutions.The Laboratory has also served as the venue for numerous national and international seminars and conferences. The research activities of the Laboratory have been documented in many high quality research papers, and more than 110 new genera/species of microfungi have been recorded. In the latter context, the facility serves as an internationally recognized reference centre where type material of new Malaysian fungal taxa are maintained. Currently, various microfungi are being screened as potential sources of pharmaceutical products.

HONG KONG

Department of Biology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong 

Mycological-related activities at The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) are largely concerned with the study of mushrooms and can be traced back to 1960. This was the year when Shu-ting Chang, now Professor Emeritus, first joined the staff of Chung Chi College, one of three academic institutions in Hong Kong which, in 1963, amalgamated to form what is now the University. Subsequently, many biologists with widely varying backgrounds and expertise from teaching and research institutions worldwide have been attracted to CUHK by Professor Chang's pioneering work with mushrooms. Mushroom-related activities at CUHK can be conveniently described under the headings: Research, Training and International Services At the present time, eight academic staff of the Department of Biology, together with colleagues from the Departments of Anatomy and Biochemistry, are engaged on some aspect of mushroom-related research projects. The three major research areas relate to: (i) the production, biological evaluation and quality control of 'mushroom nutriceuticals'; (ii) the physiological and enzymological aspects of mushrooms in relation to substrate utilisation, fruit body yields and other bioconversion/bioremediation processes; and (iii) genetics and molecular biology

A rapidly expanding sector of mushroom biotechnology is the development of mushroom nutriceuticals, a term used to describe a new class of compounds extractable from either the mycelium or fruit body of mushrooms and which exhibit medicinal and/or tonic qualities and can serve as nutritional supplements. Several multi-disciplinary research projects related to mushroom nutriceuticals. These include:
(a) an investigation of the hepatoprotective, antitumour and toxicological activities of mushroom extracts and mushroom secretory products; (b) molecular analysis of the in vivo effect of protein-bound polysaccharide complex (PSPC) from Tricholoma sp. on cytokine gene expression; (c) immunomodulation activity of extracellular polysaccharide (STC-20) from Tricholoma; (d) hypolipidaemic, hypocholesterolaemic, hypotensive and other related cardiovascular activities of edible mushroom products; (e) mushrooms as a source of glycosidase inhibitors; (f) dietary fibre content and composition of the fruiting bodies and mycelium of edible mushrooms. Research projects involving physiological and enzymological aspects of mushrooms include: (a) the production of lignocellulolytic enzymes (cellulases, hemicellulases and ligninases) from commercially important edible mushroom species (e.g. Volvariella volvacea, Flammulina velutipes, Lentinula edodes and Pleurotus spp.; (b) purification, characterisation and secretion of individual cellulases from V. volvacea during growth of the fungus on natural substrates; (c) bioconversion of soybean wastes into added-value products by mushroom fungi; (c) use of mushroom biomass, mushroom products and spent mushroom substrate as agents of bioremediation; (d) effect of lignin-related phenols on the growth and lignocellulolytic activity of mushroom fungi; (e) nitrogen metabolism in edible mushroom species.

Genetical and molecular biological studies include: (a) isolation and regulation of cellulase genes in the straw mushroom, V. volvacea, and the oyster mushroom, Pleurotus; (b) generation of molecular markers for construction of a genetic map, and characterisation of genetic determinants of some phenotypic traits in the Shiitake mushroom, Lentinula edodes; (c) identification and molecular cloning of differentially expressed genes involved in lignocellulose utilisation in L. edodes; (d) identification and molecular cloning of differentially expressed genes involved in fruit-body development in L. edodes; (e) diversity-generating mechanisms in V.volvacea

Other on-going research which does not fall into these three major categories includes: (a) the monitoring and analysis of staphylococcal enterotoxins in V. volvacea; (b) zinc uptake and distribution in selected mushroom fungi and the effects of zinc on growth and fruit body development.　

Since 1991 alone, mushroom-related research has attracted almost US$850,000 in funding from sources which include the Hong Kong Research Grants Council, the Croucher Foundation, United Nations Industrial Development Organization, the British Council and several industrial organisations.
The Department of Biology at CUHK plays a major role in the training of young scientists, especially those from developing countries, in techniques related to mushroom biology and cultivation. During the past 22 years, three Ph.D and eighteen M.Phil Degrees have been conferred on Departmental graduate students working on research projects involving mushrooms. Several workshops, financially supported by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), the United Nations Development Programme UNDP), and the International Cell Research Organization (ICRO) have been held in the Department's research laboratories and at the mushroom cultivation facility located on the University campus.The University has also hosted several international workshops and conferences wholly or partly concerned with mushroom biology and/or cultivation.Through these conferences, workshops and other meetings, CUHK has provided occasions for the interaction of scientists and experts from industrialised and developing countries, for younger scientists to discuss their research activities with more experienced scientists from different countries, and the opportunity for scientists from different countries to develop collaborative research programmes. The Department of Biology at CUHK is also the Headquarters of the International Mushroom Society for the Tropics. In 1991, when UNESCO approved the establishment of the Hong Kong Microbial Resource Centre (MIRCEN) as the twenty-fourth such centre among the global network of MIRCENs, the Department of Biology was selected to be the headquarters. The main theme of the Hong Kong MIRCEN's activities is Bioconversion Technology which is highly compatible and complementary with many of the Department's mushroom-related research programmes especially those concerned with the utilisation of lignocellulosic and other organic wastes and with bioremediation. The University is also a major contributor to the Global Network on Mushroom Research and Development constituted by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. Professor S.T.Chang is the Coordinator of the Mushroom Germplasm Science Working Group, one of six such groups established as part of the network.　

In October 1993, the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) approved the allocation of funding to establish a Centre for International Services to Mushroom Biotechnology (CISM BIOTECH) on the campus of The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK). The Centre is currently engaged in expanding a Mushroom Biotechnology Database and Information Network (MUSHNET) for the collection and dissemination of information relating to mushroom production and mushroom biotechnology. This comprises published literature relating to the subject areas, primary data available from CUHK records and through the World Society for Mushroom Biology and Mushroom Products, and other material available through national databases, government reports and other sources of a similar nature. A Mushroom Depository and Genebank for the conservation of mushroom genetic resources is also located at the Centre. The Centre will provide for technology transfer and services to organisations in developing countries through training courses, workshops and consultant activities, and undertake research in many aspects of mushroom biology including cultivation technology. genetics and biology of mushrooms, bioconversion of agricultural wastes, mushroom products, and processing and marketing. CISM BIOTECH will also interact with regional and national nodes/resource centres worldwide in providing the necessary technological back-up support for the promotion of regional and national development of mushroom and mushroom-related industries.

Two members of The Chinese University of Hong Kong's Biology Department (Professor S.T. Chang and Dr John Buswell), are also actively involved (as Vice-President and Secretary/Treasurer, respectively) in the administration of the World Society for Mushroom Biology and Mushroom Products established in January 1994. 

Some recent research papers published by Hong Kong mycologists include:

Hyde, K.D., Vrijmoed, L.P. & Hodgkiss, I.J. Tropical mycological research in Hong Kong. The Mycologist 9:35. (1995).

Sadaba, R.B., Vrijmoed, L.L.P., Jones, E.B.G. & Hodgkiss, I.J. Observations on vertical distribution of fungi associated with standing senescent Acanthus ilicifolius stems at Mai Po Mangrove, Hong Kong. Hydrobiologia 295:119-126. (1995).

Hyde, K.D. & Lee, S.Y. Ecology of mangrove fungi and their role in nutrient cycling: what gaps occur in our knowledge? Hydrobiolgia 295:107-118. (1995).

Sadaba, R.B., Vrijmoed, L.L.P., Jones, E.B.G. & Hodgkiss, I.J. Fungal succession and decomposition of exposed Acanthus ilicifolius stems at Mai Po Mangrove, Hong Kong. In Environmental Research in Pearl River and Coastal Waters, eds. Wong, C.K., Chu, K.H., Chen, Q.C. & Ma, X.L. Guangdong Higher Education Press, Guangzhou, PRC, 186. (1995).

Wang, H.X., Liu, W.K., Ng, T.B., Ooi, V.E.C. & Chang, S.T. Immunomodulatory and antitumour activities of a polysaccharide-peptide complex from a mycelial culture of Tricholoma sp., a local edible mushroom. Life Sciences. 57:269-281. (1995a).

Wang, H.X., Liu, W.K., Ng, T.B., Ooi, V.E.C. & Chang, S.T. Isolation and characterization of two distinct lectins with antiproliferative activity from the cultured mycelium of the edible mushroom Tricholoma mongolicum. International Journal of Peptide and Protein Research. 46:508-513.(1995b).

Buswell, J.A., Cai, Y.J. & Chang, S.T. Effect of nutrient nitrogen on manganese peroxidase and laccase production by Lentinula (Lentinus) edodes. FEMS Microbiology

INDIA

India has over 50 institutes and 150 universities where mycology-related studies are undertaken, and some 300 activie mycologists. Annually, about 300 mycological research papers are published both in Indian and foreign journals.There are two mycological societies: the Mycological Society of India which publishes the journal "Kavaka" (edited by Prof. C.V. Subramanian), and the Indian Mycological Society which publishes the Indian Journal of Mycology.

Centre for Advanced Studies in Mycology and Plant Pathology, Madras University

The Centre, associated with the University's Botany laboratories, is located on the Guindy campus and is one of the important centres of mycology in India. Mycology became a focus for attention at the Centre about 50 years ago under the leadership of the eminent mycologist and plant pathologist, Professor T.S. Sadasivan. The Centre's work on various aspects of mycology was continued by Professor C.V. Subramanian, former President of the IMA (1976-1983) and several of his pupils who, either remained in Madras or spread the cause of Mycology to other universities and institutes throughout India. The Centre has become recognized for its work on different aspects of ecology, biology and taxonomy of fungi, especially of the Hyphomycetes and Ascomycetes, and today is an important centre for work on the taxonomy of the Agaricales.

Department of Plant Pathology, Rajasthan Agricultural University at Udaipur

Mycology forms an integral part of the teaching and research activities of the Department of Plant Pathology at the University. Mycology is taught at both undergraduate (one course) and postgraduate (three M.Sc. and one Ph.D courses) levels. In the past, research interests included fungal physiology, taxonomy of plant pathogenic fungi particularly rusts, and the powdery and downy mildews. Currently, in addition to fungal ecology and taxonomy, the main research interests are in the biological control of plant pathogenic fungi (in collaboration with the university's own Department of Biochemistry and with the Department of Biological Sciences, University of Exeter, United Kingdom), race identification in Colletotrichum (in collaboration with the International Crop Research Institute of Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), Hyderabad), and mushroom cultivation. The Department of Plant Pathology, with assistance from over 100 plant pathologists working at a number of research institutions and universities throughout Rajasthan, is also actively engaged in the development of chemical treatments for controlling both fungal and bacterial diseases. Moreover, it provides training for Extension Officers employed by the Department of Agriculture, Government of Rajasthan, operates a plant disease identification service for the state's farmers, and suggests appropriate measures to combat disease outbreaks. During the last decade, a number of eminent mycologists from overseas have visited the Department.

Culture Collection & Herbarium, ARI, New Delhi

India has a national culture collection and herbarium located at the Division of Mycology and Plant Pathology, IARI, New Delhi which has been a centre for mycologically-related activities for over 75 years. In addition, a new Culture Collection Centre has been established recently at Chandigarh with assistance from the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India.

Nepal

Some recent publications emanating from this Department are as follows:

Adhikari, M.K. Mycodiversity in Nepal: a glimpse. Nahson Bulletin 3-4:4-6. (1995).

Adhikari, M.K. Toxic and medicinal mushrooms from Nepal. Apinmap Scamap Network I:1-2. (1995).

Budathoki, U. & Singh, P.N. Some new black mildews from Kathmandu Valley. Indian Phytopathology 47:377-380. (1994). 

Budathoki, U. & Singh, S.K. Three new species of Pseudocarospora from the Nepal Himalaya. Myco. Res. 99:230-232. (1995).

Budathoki, U. & Singh S.K. A new dictyosporic folicolous Hyphomycete from Kathmandu Valley (Nepal). Indian Phytopath 48:1. (1995).

Manandhar, V. & Adhikari M.K. Lepiota and its allied genera from Nepal II. Nahson Bulletin 1:2-3. (1995).

Manandhar, V. Rust on medicinal plant Jasminum - a new report from Nepal. Apinmap Scamap Network 1:3-4. (1995).

THAILAND

Culture Collections in Thailand containing mycological specimens include those located at: (i) Thailand Academic Agricultural Division of the Ministry of Agriculture where various filamentous fungi (basidiomycetes) and mushroom species are maintained, and (ii) Thailand Microbiological Resources Centre (MIRCEN) which holds various filamentous fungi and yeasts.

Some recent mycological publications include: Puttikhunt, C., Pichyangkura, S. & Kinoshita, S. Production of linamarase from the yeast Hansenula anomala. 2nd Int. Sci Meeting Proceeding. Cassava Biotech. Network (CIAT) II: 439-450. (1995).

Punnapayak, H. & Hoffman, J.J. Ansonia spp. as potential fuel crops for arid lands. World. J. Microbiol. Biotechnol. 73: 85-87.

Higher degrees awarded within the AMC area in 1995/96 include:

Masters Degree:

KUO, Hon-Chi. (1996). Taxonomic study of Uredinales on Cyperaceae of Taiwan. Dept. of Botany, National University of Taiwan, Taipei.

MAN, Sulaiman bin. (1995). Taxonomy and distribution of Hyphomycetes on decaying aerial parts of palms in Malaysia. Department of Botany, University of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur.

MOI, Llew Gee. (1995). A taxonomic study of litter-inhabiting dematiaceous Hyphomycetes in Malaysia. Department of Botany, University of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur.

SEE, Loh Leh. (1995). Taxonomy and distribution of Zygomycetes in Malaysia. Department of Botany, University of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur.

PhD Degree:

BAI Feng-yan. (1995). The genus Candida of China. Graduate School of Academia Sinica, Beijing, China.

CHEN, Chee-Jen. (1995). Morphology and molecular phylogenietic relationships on Tremella and related genera (Tremellales, Heterobasidiomycetes) in Taiwan. Department of Botany, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.

GUO, Cheng-liang. (1995). Phylogenetic relationships of some Tilletia species in China based on ribosomal DNA RFLPs analyses. Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, China.

WANG, Qi. (1995). Systematic studies on the Trichiales (Myxomycetes) from China. Shenyang Agricultural University/Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China.

WANG, Tien-Cheng. (1995). Cultural behavior of Pseudocercospora fuligena, the cause of tomato black leaf mold, and host resistance. Department of Plant Pathology, National Chung-Hsin University, Taichung, Taiwan.

China

Ascochyta araliae J.D. Sun & J.K. Bai, Acta Mycol. Sin. 14:107. (1995). On Aralia elata (Miq.) Semm. Type: MHSAU 1977 in Shenyang Agricultural University.

Ascochyta macckiae J.D. Sun & J.K. Bai, Acta Mycol. Sin. 14:109. (1995). On Macckia amurensis Rupr. & Maxim. Type: MHSAU 1978, Shenyang Agricultural University.

Ascochyta nicandrae J.D. Sun & J.K. Bai, Acta Mycol. Sin. 14:110. (1995). On Nicandra physaloides Gaerth. Type: MHSAU 1975, Shenyang Agricultural University.

Ascochyta zanthoxyli J.D. Sun & J.K. Bai, Acta Mycol. Sin. 14:111. (1995). On Zanthoxylum planispinum Sieb. & Zucc. Type: MHSAU 1251, Shenyang Agricultural University.

Asteridiella gaylussaciae Hansf. var. craibiodendri G.Z. Jiang, Acta Mycol. Sin. 14:5. (1995). On Craibiodendron stellatum (Pierre) Smith. Type: HMAS 45733, Beijing.

Asterina aquilariae Y.S. Ouyang & B. Song, Acta Mycol. Sin. 14:242. (1995). On Aquilaria sinensis (Lour.) Gilg. Type: GDIM 78141, Guangdong Institute of Microbiology, Guangzhou.

Asterina garciniicola Y.S. Ouyang & B. Song, Acta Mycol. Sin. 14:244. (1995). On Garcinia multiflora Champ. Type: GDIM 92032, Guangdong Institute of Microbiology, Guangzhou.

Coleosporium synuricola Y. Xue & L.P. Shao, Acta Mycol. Sin. 14:248. (1995). On Synurus deltoides Nakai. Type: Y. Xue 93001 (holotype in Northwest Forestry University, isotype in HMAS).

Eurotium aridicola H.Z. Kong & Z.T. Qi, Acta Mycol. Sin. 14:87. (1995). Isolated from animal dung in Tibet. Type: HMAS 62768; living culture AS 3.4673 (Institute of Microbiology, Academia Sinica, Beijing).

Eurotium costiforme H.Z. Kong & Z.T. Qi, Acta Mycol. Sin. 14:10. (1995). (Anam.: Aspergillus costiformis Kong & Qi). Isolated from moldy paper-box, Hebei. Type: HMAS 62766; living culture AS 3.4664.

Eurotium fimicola H.Z. Kong & Z.T. Qi, Acta Mycol. Sin. 14:86. (1995). (Anam.: Aspergillus fimicola Kong & Qi). Isolated from animal dung in Tibet. Type: HMAS 62769; living culture AS 3.4674.

Eurotium parviverruculosum H.Z. Kong & Z.T. Qi, Acta Mycol. Sin. 14:12. (1995). (Anam.: Aspergillus parviverruculosus Kong & Qi). Isolated from soil, Hebei. Type: HMAS 62767; Living culture AS 3.4665.

Ganoderma renii S.C. He, Acta Mycol. Sin. 14:104. (1995). Type: H1495 (HMBAG, Academia Guizhouensis, Guiyang).

Ganoderma zhenningense S.C. He, Acta Mycol. Sin. 14:24. (1995). Type: H1425 (HMBAG, Academia Guizhouensis, Guiyang).

Lobaria yulongensis J.B. Chen, Acta Mycol. Sin. 14:261. (1995). Type: Ahti, Chen & Wang no.46339 (HMAS) (lichen).

Lophodermium confluens Y.R. Lin, C.L. Hou & W.F. Zheng, Acta Mycol. Sin. 14:93. (1995). On Pinus armandi Franch. Type: ACAFP 67307 (Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei).

Lophodermium harbinense Y.R. Lin, Acta Mycol. Sin. 14:179. (1995). On Juniperus sibirica Burgsd. Type: ACAFP 67037.

Marssonina zanthoxyli Y.J. Lu & G.L. Li, Acta Mycol. Sin. 14:184. (1995). On Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim. Type: Lu & Yang 911021 (Shandong Agricultural University, Taian).

Meliola lianchangensis G.Z. Jiang, Acta Mycol. Sin. 14:2. (1995). On Dioscorea scortechinii Br. & Burk. var. parviflora Br. & Burk. Type: HMAS 24303.

Meliola mitragynicola Dieght. var. wendlandiicola G.Z. Jiang, Acta Mycol. Sin. 14:3. (1995). On Wendlandia tinctoria DC. Type: HMAS 44486.

Microsphaera exochordae Q.X. Lu & G.Z. Lu, Acta Mycol. Sin. 14:172. (1995). On Exochorda serratifolia Moore. Type: HMSAU 1992 (Shenyang Agircultural University, Shengyang).

Oudemansiella fanjingshanensis M.Zang & X.L. Wu, Acta Mycol. Sin. 14:50. (1995). Type: HKAS 39316 (Kunming Institute of Botany, Academia Sinica, Kunming).

Phallus megacephalus M. Zang, Acta Mycol. Sin. 14:251. (1995). Type: HKAS 28176.

Phyllosticta chaenomelesicola L. Yu & J.K. Bai, Acta Mycol. Sin. 14:192. (1995). On Chaenomeles speciosa Nakai. Type: HMSAU 1981 (Shenyang Agricualtural University, Shenyang).

Phyllosticta convallaricola L. Yu & J.K. Bai, Acta Mycol. Sin. 14:193. (1995). On Convallaria keisei Miq. Type: HMSAU 995.

Plasmopara sanguisorbae C.J. Li, Z.Q. Yuan & Z.Y. Zhao, Acta Mycol. Sin. 14:161. (1995). On Sanguisorba officinalis L. Type: HMAAC 001210 (Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi).

Ploioderma destruens Y.R. Lin & C.L. Hou, Acta Mycol. Sin. (1995). On Cunninghamia lanceolata Hook. Type: ACAFP 67485 (Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei).

Sclerotinia ginseng C.R. Wang, C.F. Chen & J. Chen, Acta Mycol. Sin. 14:187. (1995). On Panax ginseng C.A. Mey. Type: HMSAU 800719 (Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang).

Sinoboletus guizhouensis M. Zang & X.L. Wu, Acta Mycol. Sin. 14:251. (1995). Type: HKAS 29186 (Kunming Institute of Botany, Academia Sinica, Kunming).

Hong Kong

Dept. of Ecology & Biodiversity, University of Hong Kong

The genus Phyllachora from Australia. Observations on P. pseudostromatica, P. Melaleucae and P. shivasia sp. nov. from the host Melaleuca. Pearce, C.A. & Hyde, K.D. Mycological Research 99:1253-1260 (1995).

The genus Massarina, with a description of M. eburnea and an annotated list of Massarina names. Hyde, K.D. Mycological Research 99:291-296 (1995).

Checklist of plant diseases of the Western Province of Papua New Guinea. Hyde, K.D. & Philemon, E. Australian Plant Pathology 23:69-76. (1995). 

Guignardia candeloflamma sp. nov. causing leaf spots of Pinanga sp. Fröhlich, J. & Hyde, K.D. Mycological Research 99:110-112. (1995). 

Fungi from palms. XIX. Appendicospora coryphae, a new name for Apiosporella coryphae. Hyde, K.D. Sydowia 47:223-229. (1995). 

The genus Phyllachora from Australia: and two new species; P. victoriensis and P. hakeaicola from Hakea. Pearce, C.A. & Hyde, K.D. Mycological Research 99:1261-1267. (1995). 

Astrosphaeriella fronsicola sp. nov. associated with leaf spots on Oraniospsis and other palms. Fröhlich, J. & Hyde, K.D. Mycological Research 99:453-459. (1995).

Maculatipalma frondicola gen. et sp. nov. causing leaf spots on palms in north Queensland with descriptions of related genera; Apioplagiostoma and Plagiostoma. Fröhlich, J. & Hyde, K.D. Mycological Research 99:727-734. (1995). 

Fungi from palms. XVIII. The Genus Anthostomella, with ten new species. Hyde, K.D. Nova Hedwigia. (1995). In press. 

Mycospharerella palmicola associated with leaf spots of Cocos nucifera in Australia, Irian Jaya and Papua New Guinea. Hyde, K.D. & Fröhlich, J. Mycological Research 99:704-706. (1995). 

Tropical Australian Freshwater Fungi. IX. Vaginatispora aquatica gen. et sp. nov. Hyde, K.D. Nova Hedwigia 61:233-241. (1995).

The genus Phyllachora from Australia. Phyllachora sagerettiae sp. nov. from Sageretia hamosa. Pearce, C.A., Hyde, K.D. & Shivas, R.G. Mycological Research 99:554-556.(1995). 

Tropical Australia freshwater fungi.VII. New genera and species of ascomycetes. Hyde, K.D. Nova Hedwigia 61:119-140. (1995). 

Fungi from rachides of Livistona in the Western Province of Papua New Guinea. Hyde, K.D. Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society 116:315-324. (1995). 

Fungi from palms. XVII. The genus Fasciatispora, with notes on Amphisphaerella. Hyde, K.D. Nova Hedwigia 61:249-268. (1995). 

Fungi from palms. XV. Sabalicola gen. nov., and a new combination for Anthostomella sabalensioides. Hyde, K.D. Nova Hedwigia 60:595-598. (1995).

Fungi from palms. XVI. Cocoicola gen. nov. Hyde, K.D. Nova Hedwigia 60:599-604. (1995).

Fungi from Palms. XXI. The genus Seynesia. Hyde, K.D. Sydowia 47:199-212. (1995).

Two new interesting ascomycetes from Irian Jaya and Papua New Guinea. Hyde, K.D. Mycotaxon 55:275-282. (1995). 

Tropical Australian Freshwater Fungi. VIII. Bertia convolutispora sp. nov. Hyde, K.D. Nova Hedwigia 61:141-146. (1995). 

Fungi from palms. XX. Caudatispora palmicola gen. et sp. nov. from in Ecuador. Hyde, K.D. & Fröhlich, J. Sydowia 47:230-235. (1995). 

Lophiosphaera asiana sp. nov. from Thailand mangroves. Hyde, K.D. Mycotaxon 55:283-288. (1995). 

Eutypella naqsii sp. nov. from interitidal Avicennia. Hyde, K.D. Mycological Research 99:1462-1464. (1995). 

Fungi from palms.XX.The genus Guignardia. Hyde, K.D. Sydowia. 47:180-198. (1995).

Fungi from palms. XXIII. Rachidicola gen et sp. nov. Hyde, K.D. & Fröhlich, J. Sydowia 47:217-222. (1995). 

Fungi from palms XXIV. Ascotaiwania palmicola sp. nov. from palms in Ecuador. Hyde, K.D. Sydowia 47:213-215. (1995). 

Stiblella holoboluva sp. nov. from the Philippines. Seifert, K., Stanley, S. & Hyde, K.D. Sydowia 47:258-263. (1995).

Nepal

In the year 1994-95 about 40 species of mushroom and other plant parasitic fungi have been collected from different areas (e.g. Kathmandu Valley, Jumla, Mustang, Pokhara), identified and preserved. These included six species of Lepiota, one species of Aecidium and one species of Sporosorium which are reported as new to Nepal.

Taiwan

Acantharia chaetomoides; Antostomella rostrospora; A. taiwanensis; Bertia biseptata;

Gnomonia lithoccarpicola; Gnomoniella lithocarpicola; Micropeltis symploci; Rosenscheldiella perseae; Schizothyrium millettiae; Tubeufia sentosa. Hsieh, W.H., C.Y. Chen and A. Sivanesan. Taiwan fungi: new species and new records of ascomycetes. Mycol. Res. 99: 917-931. (1995).

Antrodia cinnamomea. Chang, T.T. and W.N. Chou. Antrodia cinnamomea sp. nov. on Cinnamomum kanehirai in Taiwan. Mycol. Res. 99:756-758. (1995).

Ardhachandra prolatofusiformis. Chen, J.L. and S.S. Tzean.A new species of Ardhachandra from Taiwan. Mycol. Res. 99: 364-366. (1995).

Aspergillus taichungensis. Yaguchi, T., A. Someya and S. Udagawa. Aspergillus taichungensis, a new species from Taiwan. Mycoscience 36: 421-424. (1995).

Chaetosphaeria capitata; *Pseudofuscophialis lignicola. Sivanesan, A. and H.S. Chang. Pseudofuscophialis lignicola gen.et sp. nov. and Chaetosphaeria capitata sp. nov. from wood in Taiwan. Mycol. Res. 99: 711-716. (1995). 

Entrophospora kentinensis; Glomus chimonobambusae. Wu, C.G., Y.S. Liu, Y.L. Hwuang, Y.P. Wang and C.C. Chao. Glomales of Taiwan: V. Glomus chimonobambusae and Entrophospora kentinensis, spp. nov. Mycotaxon 53: 283-294. (1995).

Halosarpheia aquadulcis. Hsieh, S.Y., H.S. Chang, E.B.G. Jones, S.J. Read and S.T. Moss. Halosarpheia aquadulcis sp. nov., a new lignicolous, freshwater ascomycetes from Taiwan. Mycol. Res. 99: 49-53. (1995). 

*Pareutypella nematoceras; P. sulcata. Yu, Y.M. and J.D. Rogers. Pareutypella gen. nov. for two long-ostiolate pyrenomycetes from Taiwan. Mycologia 87: 891-895. (1995).

Phellinus eugeniae. Chang, T.T. Phellinus eugeniae sp. nov. on Eugenia jambus in Taiwan. Mycol. Res. 99: 1527-1528. (1995).

**Laboulbenia exigua Thaxter var. melanolabiata Terada. Terada, K. Laboulbenia exigua and related taxa (Ascomycetes, Laboulbeniales). Mycoscience 36: 293-309. (1995).

**Pleurotus cystidiosus var. formosensis J.M. Moncalva. Moncalva, J.M. Pleurotus cystidiosus var. formosensis var. nov.: an unusual Pleurotus collection of subgenus Coremiopleurotus from Taiwan. Mycol. Res. 99:1479-1482. 1995.

New records:

Allochytridium expandens Salkin; Catenochytrium carolinianum Berdan; Chytriomyces hyalinus Karling; Entophlyctis confervae-glomeratae (Cienkowski)Sparrow; Rhizophlyctis variabilis Karling; R. mastigotrichis (Nowak.) Foscher; Rhizophydium chaetiferum Sparrow; R. haynaldii (Schaarschmidt) Fischer; R. laterale (Braun) Rabenhorst. Chen, S.F. and C.Y. Chien. Some chytrids of Taiwan (I). Bot. Bull. Acad. Sin. 36: 235-241 (1995). 

Amanita hemibapha (Berk. & Br.) Sacc. subsp. similis (Bored.) Corner & Bas.; A. rufoferruginea Hongo; A. vaginata var. puncata (Cleland & Cgeel) Gulb.; A. virosa (Fr.) Bertillon; Baeospora mycosura (Fr.:Fr.) Sing.; Boletus violaceofuscus Chiu; Camarophyllus virgineus (Wulf:Fr.) Kummer; Clavicorona pyxidata (Pers.:Fr.) Doty Clavulina cinerea (Bull.:Fr.) Schroet; Clavulinopsis miyabeana (S.Ito) S.Ito; Copelandia cyanescens (Berk. & Br.) Sing.; Coltricia cinnamomea (Pers.) Murr.; Cordyceps submilitarius Henn.; Crepidotus badiofloccosus Imai; Cyptotrama asprata (Berk.) Redhead & Ginns; Gomphidius maculatus (Scop.) Fr.; Gomphus floccosus (Schw.) Sing.; Gyromitra esculenta (Pers.) Fr.; Hygrocybe psittacina (Schaeff. :Fr.) Wunsche; Inocybe calamistrata (Fr.:Fr.) Gull.; Laccaria ohiensis (Mont.) Sing.; L. vinaceoavellanea Hongo; Lactarius castanopsidis Hongo; L. controversus (Pers.:Fr.) Fr.; L. gerardii Peck; L. laeticolorus (Imai) Imazeki; L. lignyotus Fr. var. marginatus (Smith & Hesler) Hesler & Smith; L. subvellereus Peck; Lepiota cinnamomea Hongo; Leucocoprinus birnbaumii (Corda) Sing.; Oligoporus caesius (Scharad.: Fr.) Gilbn. & Ryv.; Panus fulves (Berk.) Pegler & Rayner; Phaeolepiota aurea (Matt.: Fr.) Maire; Phellinus hartigii (Allesch. & Schnabl.) Imaz; Pluteus leoninus (Schaeff: Fr.) Kummer ; P. petasatus (Fr.) Gillet; Pseudocolus fusiformis Lloyd; Pycnoporus coccineus (Fr.) Bond. & Sing.; Rhizina undulata Fr. ; Russula compacta Forst & Peck apud Peck; R. mariae Peck; Strobilomyces seminudus Hongo; Strobilurus stephanocystis (Hora) Sing.; Stropharia rugosoannulata Farlow; Suillus subluteus (Peck) Snell; Tylopilus porphyrosporus (Fr.) A.H. Smith & Thiers; T. virens (Chiu) Hongo; Volvariella subtaylori Hongo. Chen, C.M. and H.W. Huang. Survey of wild mushrooms in Nantou county. in "The Biological Resources of Nantou county: A Preliminary Bioinventory Report" p.239-254. Taiwan Endemic Species Research Institute. (1995).

Antrodiella cf. romelii (Donk) Niemela; Asterostroma musciola (Berk. & Curt.) Massee; Brevicellicium olivascens (Bres.) Larss. & Hjortst; Ceriporia viridans (Berk. & Br.) Donk; Ceriporiopsis cf. mucida (Pers:Fr.) Gilbn.; Lopharia cinerascens (Schw.) G.H. Cunn.; Oxyporus cuneatus (Murr.) Aoshima; Plicatura crispa (Pers.:Fr.) Rea ; Rigidoporus vincta (Berk.) Ryv.; Sistotrema brinkmannii (Bres.) John Erikss.; Skeletocutis alborcremea A. David; Steccherinum robustius (John Erikss. & Lund.) John Erikss. Wu, S.H. Twelve species of the Aphyllophorales new to Taiwan. Fung. Sci. 10: 9-22. (1995).

Circinella musae (Sorokine) Berlese & de Toni. Ho, H.M. Notes on two coprophilous species of the genus Circinella (Mucorales) from Taiwan. Fung. Sci. 10: 29-32 (1995). 

Dichopleuropus spathulatus Reid Elmerina cladophora (Berk.) Bres.; Gyrodontium versicolor (Berk. & Br.) Mass G.; Thelephora fuscella (Cesati) Lloyd. Wu, S.H. and W.N. Chou. Four basidiomycotina new to Taiwan. Bull. Nat. Mus. Nat. Sci. 6: 139-146 (1995). 

Didymium lenticulare Thind & Lakhanpal. Chung, C.H. and C.H. Liu. Didymium lenticulare Thind & Lakhanpal (Physarales, Myxomycetes) - New to Taiwan. Taiwania 40: 375-380 (1995).

Dimerella epiphylla (Muell. Arg.) Mulme. Chung, C.H. Notes on some folicolous lichenized fungi from Taiwan. Tawania.

1-156 (1995). 

Humicola insolens var. thermoidea (Cooney & Emerson) Ellis; Myceliophthora fergusii (Klopotek)van Oorschot; M. hinnulea Awao & Udagawa. Chen, K.Y. and Z.C. Chen. Three new records of thermophilic fungi from Taiwan. Taiwania 40: 129-138 (1995). 

Leucothecium coprophilum Vulldosera & Guarro. Yaguchi, T., A. Someya and S. Udagawa. Two interesting cleistothecial Ascomycetes from soils. Mycoscience 36: 151-154 (1995a). 

Stemonitis axifera var. smithii (Macbride) Hagelstein; S. herbatica Peck. Chung, Ch.H. and C.H. Liu.First report of fimicolous Myxomycetes from Taiwan. Fung. Sci. 10: 33-35 (1995).

* New genus

** New varieties

ADVANCE OF SOYBEAN RUST RESEARCH (1994)

Edited by Science and Technology Division, Agriculture Ministry, P.R. China & Oil Crops Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences. Hubei Science and Technology Publishing House. 173 pp (in Chinese). ISBN 7-5352-1643-9/S.151. US$1.20 (approx).

ECONOMIC MARCOFUNGI FROM SOUTHWESTERN CHINA (1994)

Edited by Ying Jian-zhe & Zang Mu. Science Press, Beijing 399 pp (in Chinese) ISBN7-03-004075 9/S.125. US$5.00 (approx). 

THE ECONOMIC MACROMYCETES FROM WESTERN SICHUAN (1994)

by Ying Jian-zhe, Wen Hua-an & Zong Yi-chen. Science Press, Beijing. 137 pp (in Chinese). ISBN7-03-004073 2/Q.490. US$2.50. (approx).

MACROFUNGAL FLORA OF GANZI REGION (1994)

by Dai Xiang-cai & Li Tai-hui. Sichuan Science & Technology Publishing House, Chengdu 330 pp (in Chinese)

ISBN7-5364-2727 3/S.489. US$3.00

CULTIVATION OF LENTINUS EDODES IN CHINA (1994)

Edited by Huang Nian-lai. Shanghai Science & Technology Press, Shanghai. 477 pp (in Chinese). ISBN 7-5439-0677-5/S.068. US$4.50 (approx).

RECENT RESEARCH ACHIEVEMENTS OF YOUNG MYCOLOGISTS IN CHINA

Edited by Tan Wan-zhong. (1995). Southwest Normal University Press, Chongqing. 213 pp (in Chinese). ISBN 7-5621-1309-2/Q.9. US$3.00 (approx).

MYCOSYSTEMA MONOGRAPHICUM SERIES NO.2. THE GENUS PSEUDOCERCOSPORA IN CHINA (1995).

by GuoYing-lan & Hsieh Wen-hsui. International Academic Publisher, Beijing. 388pp.ISBN 7-80003-331-7/Q.23. USD$ 70.00

FAUNA AND FLORA OF THE MT. NAMJAGBARWA REGION (1995).

Edited by Li Bo-sheng, Mao Xiao-lan & Wang Zong-yi. Science Press, Beijing. 315 pp (in Chinese). ISBN 7-03-004553-X/Q.564. US$4.50 (approx)

HONG KONG MUSHROOMS (1995).

by Chang Shu-ting & Mao Xiao-lan. The Chinese University Press, Hong Kong 

470 pp (in Chinese) ISBN 962-201-626-X.

US$50.00.

ULTRASTRUCTURE OF PLANT PATHOGENIC FUNGI (1995)

by Kang Zhen-sheng. China Science & Technology Press. 92 pp, 108 pl (in Chinese)

ISBN 7-5046-2174 9/Q.80. US$5.50 (approx).

MACROFUNGAL FLORA OF GUANGDONG PROVINCE

Directory of Asian Systematic Mycologists

Professor Z.C. Chen, Chairman of AMC has commissioned Dr Tricita Quimio to prepare a Directory of Asian Systematic Mycologists. The Directory, which identifies and provides information on the activities of mycologists working in universities, government laboratories, private companies, or other centres located within IMACA's sphere of operation, is currently being compiled. Currently, some 200 mycologists from Bangladesh, Mainland China, Hong Kong SAR, India, Indonesia, Iran, Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, Russia, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam are listed.
The purpose of this important initiative is to provide for better communication between mycologists from different countries within the region, and to promote greater interaction and cooperation. Its success will depend on the participation of our readers who are encouraged to register.
If you would like to be included in the first edition of the Directory, please contact Dr Quimio without delay at :-
The Department of Plant Pathology, University of the Philippines at Los Banos, College, Laguna, Philippines, FAX 63 94 9363551 or by e-mail at: thq@mudspring.uplb.edu.ph for further information.

Dr. Kyung-Hee MIN (Republic of Korea)

Dr. Kyung-Hee Min is currently the Head of the Department of Biology at Sookmyung Women's University in Seoul. He received his B.Sc. and M.S. from Seoul National University. After obtaining his Ph.D. from the University of Tsukuba in Japan, he joined the Faculty of Sookmyung Women's University in 1976 as Assistant Professor in the Department of Biology. Since returning to the Republic of Korea in early 1975, he has introduced several mycology courses at his university. His early research involved the identification of imperfect fungi at Sookmyung Women's University and, as a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Institute for Fermentation, Osaka, he worked on the identification and ecology of hyphomycete fungi in paddy fields. He later conducted a physiological and biochemical study on Cryptococcus neoformans while working as a Postdoctoral Fellow in the Clinical Mycology Section of the National Institute of Health, Bethesda, U.S.A. After his return to Korea in 1983, he has been involved in the identification of mushrooms for mycological courses. Aside from taxonomy, Dr. Min is also engaged in research on the molecular genetics of Neurospora crassa, and phylogenetic relationships of the genus Pleurotus using allozyme and RAPD analyses. His current research interests focus on the systematics of hyphomycete fungi and fungal molecular genetics. Dr Min is a former President of the Mycological Society of Korea and a committee member of the International Mycological Association for Asia. He has published over 40 scientific papers and has undertaken numerous academic visits to universities and research institutes in Japan, Europe and the United States.

Dr. Larissa N. VASSILYEVA (Russia)

Dr. Larissa N. Vassilyeva is a leading scientist at the Institute of Biology and Soil Science, Far East Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences (Vladivostok). After graduating from Leningrad University in 1972, she began to study microscopic fungi of the Russian Far East and completed her PhD thesis (1979) entitled "Micromycetes of Kolyma High Lands (Magadan Region)". Later, she focused on pyrenomycetes and their system elaboration and, in 1992, was awarded the degree of Doctor of Sciences at Saint-Petersburg for her thesis "Pyrenomycetes of the Russian Far East." She has published over 80 papers and written several books including "Pyrenomycetes and Loculoascomycetes of the Northern Far East" (1987), "Systematics in Mycology" (1990), "Platonism in Systematics" (1992), and "System of Pyrenomycetes" (1994). She has described overt 50 new species and 5 new genera, and has proposed overt 80 new combinations during a revision of the pyrenomycetous system. Her latest work, "Pyrenomycetous Fungi of the Russian Far East", comprising about 700 species, will be published in near future.

Dr. Teck Koon TAN (Singapore)

Dr Teck Koon Tan is Associate Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences of the National University of Singapore. After graduating from the former University of Singapore and then going on to successfully complete a Ph.D degree programme, he joined the staff of the Department of Botany (now part of the Department of Biological Sciences) in 1981. He teaches undergraduate degree courses in general mycology, fungal biodiversity and fungal aspects of plant pathology, mycological components of a postgraduate degree course on plant biology, and has supervised numerous M.Sc. and Ph.D students. His major research interests include marine fungi, fungal airspora, and fungal plant interactions. Current research projects include studies on Halophytophthora, tropical aerobiology and fungal allergens, Pseudocercospora-host interactions, Rhizoctonia-orchid symbiosis, and fungal chitosan. He also undertakes consultancy work involving fungal biodeterioration of consumer products and fungal growth on/in buildings. Dr Tan has been one of the two Secretaries to IMACA since 1990. 

Dr. Amulya Bikash BASAK (Bangladesh)

Dr. Amulya Bikash Basak isa professor in the Department of Botany of the University of Chittagong. He received his B.Sc, M.Sc. and Ph.D degrees from the same Department and University in 1975, 1976 and 1994, respectively. His M.Sc. thesis was entitled "Detection of seed-borne fungal pathogens from rough rice grains and their control measure" and his Ph.D thesis was entitled, "Studies on fungal fruit rot diseases of chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) occurring in Chittagong district." In 1995, he undertook a one month period of postdoctoral research training at the Central Arid Zone Research Institute (CAZRI) in Jodhpur, India. Professor Basak has been involved in the identification of Fungi Imperfecti from leaves, stems and seeds of several important crops grown in Bangladesh and from soils used to grow these crops. He has recorded new fungal species from different hosts such as chilli, brinjal, sunflower, bean, ponyal (Calophylum enophylum Linn.) and jackfruit. Aside from taxonomy, Dr. Basak is also engaged in research on the detection of seed-borne fungal pathogens of different crops, histopathological characters of fungi, and their transmission from seed to seedling. He has taught Mycology and Plant Pathology since 1979, and has supervised eight M.Sc. students. He has published over 33 scientific papers and, in 1989, his book entitled "Crop Diseases And Control", written in Bengali, was published by the Bangladesh Academy of Rural Development (BARD).

Professor Chiu-yuan CHIEN (Taiwan)

Professor Chien is the Director of the Mycology Laboratory at the National Taiwan Normal University. He received a B.S. degree in Botany from the National Taiwan University in 1959 and remained there as a Teaching Assistant until 1964. He then moved to Tokyo University of Education where he was awarded an M.Phil. in 1966 and a Ph.D in 1969, and then spent two years as a Research Associate in the Department of Plant Pathology at the University of Georgia in Athens before returning to the National Taiwan Normal University. His research interests include fungal systematics with emphasis on the Mucorales, and the conservation of fungal cultures. He is a Member of the Mycological Society of America, the Mycological Society of Japan, and of both the Mycological Society and the Botanical Society of the Republic of China. He is also one of the two secretaries of A.M.C. 

RUSSIA

Laboratory of Lower Plants, Institute of Biology and Soil Science, Far East Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Vladivostok, Russia.

The Laboratory of Lower Plants was organized in 1949 by Dr. Lyubov Vassilyeva, a specialist on mushrooms. Two editions of her book "Edible and Poisonous Fungi of the Far East" are popular publications. Dr Vassilyeva was well-versed in many groups of lower plants and trained specialists not only in mycology (Drs. Zinaida Azbukuna, Irina Bunkuna, Margarita Nazarova, Eugenia Bulakh), but also lichenology (Dr. Lyudmila Knyazheva), algology (Dr. Lyudmila Kukharenko), and bryology (Dr. Valentina Cherdantseva). Her former students now work at the Far East State University and in the Laboratory of Lower Plants.

At present, mycologists predominate in the Laboratory. The Head of the Laboratory is Dr. Lina Egorova who studies Hyphomycetes and is the author of the monograph "Soil Fungi of Far East - Hyphomycetes" (1986) which includes 553 species. At present, she is working on fungi of the family Moniliaceae, treating them for the volume devoted to Hyphomycetes in the series "Lower Plants, Fungi and Mosses of the Russian Far East". As a result of her investigations, some species were reported in the region for the first time. Most of these new species were found in the Kamchatka Peninsula and include Ramularia alnicola Cooke, R.canadensis Ellis et Everh., R. graminella (Hoehn.) U. Braun, R. lonicerae Vogl. She also described economically important hyphomycetous fungi such as Sarocladium oryzae (Sawada) W. Gams et D. Hawksw. which causes a decay of leaf vagina in rice plants, and Sesquicillium candelabrum (Bonord.) W. Gams. which attacks the roots of coniferous seedlings.

The previous Head of the Laboratory, Dr. Zinaida Azbukina, is a specialist on the Uredinales and Ustilaginales, and author of the monographs "Rust Fungi of Far East" (1974) and "The Manual of Rust Fungi of Soviet Far East" (1984). She identified 506 species from this region. In 1995, this information was extended when she participated in a joint project with Drs Y. Ono, M. Kakishina and S. Kaneko of Japan. They described the interesting rust fungus Triphragmiopsis laricinum (Chou) Tai on Larix, known previously only from China and Korea. Cerothelium tanakae S. Ito was found on Falcata japonica (Oliv.) Kom. for the first time in Russia. Moreover, they discovered a new species Coleosporium synuri (Azb.) on Synurus deltoides (Ait.) Nakari. Previously, this fungus was reported only in uredinia in Japan, China and Korea. At present she is the scientific editor of a series of monographs "The Lower Plants, Fungi and Mosses of the Russian Far East", three volumes of which have already been published. 

The third Doctor of Sciences in the Laboratory is Larissa Nikolaevna Vasilyeva who represents Russia on the IMA Committee for Asia. She is engaged in research on pyrenomycetous fungi and has published several monographs including "Pyrenomycetes and Loculoascomycetes of the Northern Far East" ,"Systematics in Mycology" and "Systematics of Pyrenomycetes". The former is the fourth volume in the series "Lower Plants, Fungi and Mosses of the Russian Far East" which contains about 700 species of which 27 are newly described. She would be pleased to hear from pyrenomycetologists within Asia who are interested in joint projects aimed at producing an inventory of the above mentioned fungi in Asiatic countries and in the publication of a monograph series.

Dr. Margarita Nazarova is a specialist on mushrooms, mostly Boletaceae. She worked in the Laboratory previously, and is now the only university teacher among mycologists in the Russian Far East. Due to her efforts and enthusiasm, and her ability to stimulate students interest in fungi, lichens, and algae, the Laboratory is continually reinforced with young workers. One of her recent wards is now a post-graduate student and studies fungi as indicators of environmental conditions. The aphyllophorous fungi of the reserve "Kedrovaya Pad" are the subject of a graduate programme supervised by Dr Nazarova.

Dr. Eugenia Bulakh specialises in the Agaricales. She was responsible for the section on Russulaceae in the first volume of the series "Lower Plants, Fungi and Mosses of the Russian Far East" published in 1990. She is continuing her investigations with emphasis on the Tricholomataceae, 13 species of which were found in the Russian Far East for the first time. These include such interesting species as Marasmius aurantio-ferrugineus Hongo known previously only from Japan, and Mycena lamprospora (Corner) Korak, which occurs on some islands of North Pacific. In her revision of earlier findings of tricholomataceous fungi in our region, she discovered that the name Marasmiellus vaillantii (Fr.) Sing. has a priority over Marasmius dryophyllus L. Vass. described by the late Lubov Nikolaevna Vasilyeva.

Dr. Olga Govorova is an expert on the Ustilaginales, Auriculariales, Tremellales and Dacrymycetales, and the author of the monograph "Smut Fungi of the Soviet Far East" (1990) in which 299 smut species are described. Her treatment of the Ustilaginales in our region, in collaboration with Drs I.V. Karatygin (St. Petersburg) and Z.M. Azbukina, was also published in the third volume of "Lower Plants, Fungi and Mosses of the Russian Far East". At present, she is researching some orders of heterobasidiomycetous fungi, and her new findings would be of special interest to Asiatic mycologists. For example, she discovered in the Russian Far East for the first time such species as Auricularia minor Kobayasi and Exidia uvapassa Lloyd, previously known only from Japan, as well as Calocera sinensis McNabb and Tremella aurantialba Bandoni et Zang reported only in China.

Dr. Alexander Mikulin is a lichenologist and author of "The Guide for Identification of Lichens of Kamchatka Peninsula" (1990). He also participated in the preparation of the book "Macrolichens of the Pacific Northwest" in cooperation with colleagues from Oregon State University.

Anna Bogacheva is a post-graduate student. She graduated from Far East State University where she displayed an interest in discomycetous fungi and joined mycologists of the Laboratory of Lower Plants in field work. She is currently working on the identification of discomycetes, and her efforts are contributing to our knowledge of fungi in the Russian Far East. Thus, her studies have extended the distribution range for such endemic species as Sarcoscypha vassilievii Raitv. and Albotricha kurilensis Raitv., as well as described Sclerotinia mali Takachosi which was previously reported only in Japan. Now she is now writing her Ph.D. dissertation on discomycetes (Pezizales and Leotiales) occurring in Primorsky Territory.

Dr. Mikhail Pivkin and Dr Lyubov Zvereva. Dr Pivkin, a phytopatologist, works at the Pacific Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry. In 1995, he began investigating fungi (mostly deuteromycetes) of benthos in marine localities and their biological activity. More than 2000 strains have been obtained in culture, and about half of these are deposited in KMM. Dr. Zvereva, also a specialist on marine mycology, works at the Institute of Marine Biology where she is investigating the species composition and ecology of lignicolous, phycolous and arenicolous ascomycetes and deuteromycetes. Special attention is focused on marine fungi invading the thallus of Laminaria which is cultivated in the Russian Far East.

Although not very numerous, Russian Far East mycologists represent a highly active scientific group. They are fortunate in being able to study fungi in a region where features of North American, East Asian and Euro-Asian flora combine and interact, and which is characterized by a rich biodiversity of vascular plants. The latter implies a corresponding diversity of fungi associated with these plants, and the number of new and interesting findings speaks for itself. Over the two last years, a project involving "Fungi of Reserve Ecosystems in the Russian Far East" was supported by a grant from the International Science Foundation.

Although participation in conferences held overseas is still difficult, mycologists in the region do their best to become involved in such meetings. For example, several mycologists submitted abstracts of their research to the XVIII Pacific Science Congress held in Beijing, China. Collaboration with colleagues abroad interested in the mycobiota of the Northern Pacific and in the work of the region's mycologists is always welcome.

HONG KONG SAR

Department of Biology and Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong

The Department's active group of mycologists was strengthened in May, 1997, when Professor E B Gareth Jones joined the City University as the Royal Society Kan Tan Po Visiting Professor for 12 months. During his stay, he continued his research on mangrove fungi, their taxonomy, ecology and physiology.

Earlier, in September 1996, Dr Stephen Pointing joined the Mycology Group as a Postdoctoral Fellow to work on cellulolytic activities of marine fungi in collaboration with Professor John Buswell of The Chinese University of Hong Kong. Ms Choi Yuen Wah was employed as a Research Assistant to work on the project entitled "Diversity of Subtropical and Tropical Coelomycetes and the Production of Bioactive Compounds" under the supervision of Professor Jones.

The Molecular Biology group is also active in mycological-related research with Dr So Chi-Leung, Mr Liao Xiang Hai and Mr Stephen Kim working on a project entitled "Molecular Investigation of the b-Lactam Biosynthetic Genes in Marine Fungi".

During the past year, Mr Luo Wen has registered as a Ph.D student to work on the project "Growth Studies of Marine Fungi", under the supervision of Dr Lilian Vrijmoed and Prof. Gareth Jones.

Two research grants have been awarded by the University to Dr Lilian Vrijmoed to work on "The mycota associated with the mangrove plant Kandelia candel and their decomposition" and on "Utilisation of wastes using marine microbes". Prof E B Gareth Jones also obtained University funding to work on "Diversity of Subtropical and Tropical Coelomycetes and the Production of Bioactive Compounds". A joint research programme entitled "Novel metabolites of marine fungi" was also initiated between Dr Lilian Vrijmoed and Professor E B G Jones of City University and Professor Yong-shing Lin and Professor Shining Zhou of Zhongshan University, Guangzhou, China. The collaborative project is supported by a grant from the National Science Foundation, PRC.

In May 1997, Dr Lilian Vrijmoed completed a Hong Kong Government consultancy project aimed at obtaining baseline information on the quantitative and qualitative aspects of fungal spore load in the indoor environment of office buildings and public areas such as restaurants and cinemas.

Department of Ecology and Biodiversity, University of Hong Kong

The Department has a large and active research group engaged on various aspects of tropical mycology. Initially, the group focused its activities on traditional taxonomic research on the biodiversity of fungi in tropical aquatic habitats and on palms, but has since extended its range of interests and activities to include a wider range of host plants, fungal pathogenic and wood-decaying activities within hosts and substrates, and ultrastructural and molecular approaches to taxonomy.

The group is under the overall direction of Dr. K.D. Hyde and the Departmental Head, Professor I.D. Hodgkiss. Research projects currently in progress include: (a) a comparison of endophytic and saprophytic microfungi on three genera of palms throughout Hong Kong, Brunei and Australia; (b) comparison of the mycoflora of three palm species planted across the globe to determine if palm fungi travel concomitantly with their hosts or whether new mycota takes over following introduction of the host to a new environment; (c) fungal biodiversity on Pandanaceae and species of bamboo; (d) an investigation to determine the existence of an endophytic phase in the life cycles of fungal pathogens associated with Citrus Stem End Rot; (e) seasonal changes in fungal biodiversity and the vertical distribution of fungi on grasses and sedges occurring in estuarine, freshwater and terrestrial habitats in Hong Kong.

Several research projects are directed specifically at freshwater fungi and include: (i) the taxonomy of aquatic ascomycetes and hyphomycetes; (ii) the biodiversity and ultrastructure of fungi on woody substrates submerged in streams and rivers in Brunei, Malaysia and Hong Kong; (iii) the wood-degrading abilities of tropical freshwater fungi; and (iv) the effects of human activities (e.g. industrial pollution) on the fungal assemblages of freshwater habitats in the region.

Two projects directed at producing monographs of the respective taxa are (a) a re-evaluation of the taxa in the Phyllachoraceae in Australia, and (b) an examination of species within the genus Anthostomella.

Several projects are underway involving molecular and ultrastructural analyses, complementing on-going research based on morphological characters. These include (a) the application of molecular techniques to the taxonomy of the Bipolaris-Curvularia complex; (b) molecular systematics of Amphisphaeriaceous fungi; (c) DNA sequencing to verify species within Annulatascus and related species; (d) molecular systematics of the Pleosporales, the Melanommatales, and the genus Massarina; (e) a comparative analysis of molecular and traditional techniques for studying endophyte biodiversity within palm tissue; and (f) electron microscopy to elucidate the ultrastructure of Annulatascus and Massarina species. Some of the research is in collaboration with other institutions including the University of Portsmouth, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, City University of Hong Kong, and the Australian Council for International Agricultural Research.

Other activities include the preservation and maintenance of a herbarium and a fungal culture collection with a current accession of record of over 1400 cultures. Funding has also been received recently to develop a Centre for Research in Fungal Biodiversity.

INDIA

International Symposium on "Ecology of Fungi".

An international symposium on "Ecology of Fungi" was held at the International Centre in Goa from 20-22 January, 1998. The symposium was organised jointly by IMACA and the Mycological Association of India (MSI), and sponsored by IMACA, MSI, the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, the British Mycological Society, Himedia Laboratories PVT Limited (Mumbai), The Scientific Instrument Co. Ltd (Mumbai), Scientek Instruments PVT. Ltd (Bangalore), and Kare Pharma (Goa).

The scientific programme included the Presidential Address of MSI by Professor R.S. Mehrotra entitled "Certain aspects of Trichoderma taxonomy, ecology, biology and control", and two Plenary Lectures, "Some advances in fungal ecology over the past 50 years" by Professor John Webster, and "The excitement of doing mycology in the tropics" by Professor C.V. Subramanian. The five oral and five poster sessions comprising the main body of the 3-day international symposium covered the following major areas: Community Structure and Function; Organic Matter Degradation and Physiology; Fungus/Plant Associations; Diversity; and Anthropogenic Effects and Epidemiology. Social events included a Symposium Dinner, and a delightful presentation of traditional Goan dancing. 

The symposium was a great success, and warm thanks are extended to Professor B.S. Sonde, Vice Chancellor, Goa University, to the Organizers under the Chairmanship of Professor B.C. Lodha, with a special mention for the Conference Secretariat, Drs D.J. Bhat and S. Raghukumar, and to the Sponsors for their generous support. 

A selection of papers presented at the Symposium will be published in the form of a Proceedings which is expected to be available in late 1998/early 1999. Further information may be obtained from: Dr. S. Raghukumar, Scientist, B.O.D., National Institute of Oceanography, Dona Paula, Goa 403004, India.

CHINA

Mycological Society of China

The former affiliation of Mycological Society of China (MSC) as a Division of the Botanical Society of China (BSC) was dissolved in 1993 so that MSC is now an independent Society with a new statute distinct from BSC.

Founded in 1980, the Society's aims are to promote the advancement of Mycology in China by organizing the academic exchanges and symposia or seminars, publishing periodicals, acting as the official mouthpiece for mycologists of China. Council consists of 25 members including President, Vice Presidents and Secretary. There are local branches in various provinces. National Congress attended by several hundred representatives in which the election of new council members is conducted is held very 4 years. Meetings of different specific topics are held each year. Membership is open to anyone possessing at least a Bachelor's degree. There are ca. 1700 members at present including student members and a few foreign members. The following autonomous special Divisions are now being developed:

1. Division of Edible & Pharmaceutical Fungus Research.

2. Division of Entomogenous Fungus Research.

3. Division of Medical Mycology.

4. Division of Veterinary Mycology.

5. Division of Plant Pathogenic Fungus Research.

6. Division of Mycotoxin and Antifungal Agents Research.

7. Division of Mycorrhizal Research.

8. Division of Industrial Mycology & Fungal Genetics.

Publications:

1. ACTA MYCOLOGICA SINICA

A quarterly journal that publishes original research papers and reviews in all aspects of Mycology and Lichenology. Articles are published in Chinese with abstracts in English. Each issue contains 80 pages and each volume 320 pages. Fourteen volumes have been published since 1982 and the journal entered its 15th year of publication in 1996. Subscription is on an annual basis. Orders should be sent to China International Book Trading corporation, P.O. Box 399, Beijing. Editorial office: Institute of Microbiology Academia Sinica, Beijing 100080.

2. MYCOLOGIA SINICA 

A journal to be published quarterly. Contributions are accepted in all aspects of Mycology. Publications will be published in either English with Chinese abstracts or Chinese with English abstracts. The editorial board consists of young mycologists in China. All communications should be addressed to Prof. Li Yu, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, Jilin 130118.

3. STUDY & APPLICATION OF ENTOMOGENOUS FUNGI IN CHINA

A serial publications issued at irregular intervals, edited by Division of Entomogenous Fungus Research of MSC. Recent issue (vol.3) was published in 1993. All communications should be addressed to Prof. Li Zeng-zhi, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036.

PHILIPPINES

Visit of Foreign Mycologists

Two staff from the International Mycological Institute (IMI), Dr. David Smith and Dr. Paul Kirk of the United Kingdom, visited the Mycology Laboratory and the Mycological Herbarium at the Department of Plant Pathology of the University of the Philippines at Los Banos. They also visited all the major culture collections in the country. Their visit is part of their mission to help member countries under the Center for Agriculture and Bioscience International (CABI) in cooperation with the Philippines Council for Agriculture Resources Research and Development (PCARRD). They will assist in the preparation of a proposal for the bioconservation of microbial genetic resources and microbial inventory in the region.

Dr Richard Hanlin, Department of Plant Pathology, University of Georgia, and former President of the Mycological Society of America, visited the Mycology Laboratory at UPLB in June 1997.

Foreign Visits of A.M.C. member

From 1-15 November, Dr. T.H. Quimio visited the Molecular Systematics Laboratory, Los Angeles Museum of Natural History for training in the use of the PCR method for identifying mushroom strains under the supervision of Dr. Don R. Reynolds.

SINGAPORE

Singapore Institute of Biology

A new journal: Asian Journal of Tropical Biology. The journal is devoted to the publication of original papers, review articles and other features in the broad field of tropical biology. All contributions and unsolicited review papers are subject to international review. Contributions on tropical mycology are welcome. These may be mailed to the Managing Editor (H.H.Yeo, e.mail: sbsyhh@nus.edu.sg) or IMACA's representative (T.K.Tan, e.mail: sbstantk@nus.edu.sg) at: Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Kent Ridge Road, Singapore 119260. Copies of "Instructions to Authors" are available on request.

HONG KONG SAR

Mycological Association of Hong Kong

The Mycological Association of Hong Kong (MAHK) was established on 13th February, 1997 and presently has over 30 members. The following mycologists currently serve on the Association's first Committee: Professor I.J. Hodgkiss (Chairman), Dr. K.D.Hyde (Secretary), Dr Stephen Pointing (Treasurer), Prof. John Buswell, Dr Lilian Vrijmoed and Mr W.H. Ho. The Association will promote mycological education and research in the Special Administrative Region and will publish a regular Newsletter providing information on its activities.

The inaugural meeting of MAHK was held at the University of Hong Kong on Friday, 6th June 1997. Both the British Mycological Association and IMACA sent messages of support to the new Association. This was followed by the First Annual Meeting of MAHK. Professor E.B.G. Jones was guest speaker and presented a lecture on "Omega-3 (n-3) polyunsaturated fatty acids from waste materials". The one day meeting included a further 16 research papers and 3 posters covering ecological, applied and molecular aspects of mycology. An award for the best paper was made to Mr. W.H. Ho for his paper entitled "An ultrastructural study on the conidia of Cancelisporium and Sporoschima (Hyphomycetes)." The day's events were followed by a buffet dinner to celebrate the formation of the Association.

The Second Annual Meeting of MAHK was held on campus of The Chinese University of Hong Kong on 29th May and included a guest lecture, "Mycology and the Australian Eucalypt Forest", delivered by Dr Jack Simpson, President of the Australasian Mycological Society. The remainder of the scientific programme consisted of 16 oral and 6 poster presentations covering a wide range of mycological topics including fungal physiology and biochemistry, molecular mycology, fungal ecology and systematics, and applied mycology. The meeting was attended by over 40 mycologists from CUHK, Hong Kong University and City University. Ms. Deng Yu, an M.Phil. student from the Department of Biology at CUHK, was awarded the Association's annual prize for the best student presentation, and a design by Mr Jake Tang, also from the University's Biology Department, was selected as the official MAHK logo. The Association received congratulatory letters from Professor Z.C. Chen, Chairman of IMACA, and Professor S.T. Chang, Vice-President of the World Society of Mushroom Biology and Mushroom Products.

NEPAL

A.M.C. conducted a 'Fungal Flora Expedition of Nepal Himalaya' in October, 1997 under the leadership of Dr. Z.C. Chen in which Taiwanese, Japanese and Nepalese mycologist participated. Expedition members collected numerous mushrooms, mycorrhiza and soil fungi. The Department of Plant Resources, Plant Research Division, published 'Fungi of Nepal Part I" in 1996 and Part II in 1997. Usha Budathoki, Nepal's representative on IMACA, published an article entitled 'Paraphialocephala Gen. Nov. A Folicolous Hyphomycetes' in Recent Researches in Ecology, Environment and Pollution Vol. 10 Himalayan Microbial Diversity, New Delhi, 1996. The Mycological Society of Nepal has been established under the Chairmanship of Dr. Usha Budathoki. Dr. Ji-Yul-Lee of Korea visited Nepal, collected mushrooms and held discussions with Nepalese mycologists. In 1996, Dr. Usha Budathoki participated in the Nineteenth Bangladesh Science Conference organised by the Bangladesh Association for the Advancement of Science (BAAS). In 1997, she participated in the 9th Biennial Botanical Conference, also in Bangladesh. 

REPUBLIC OF KOREA

The Mycological Association of Korea

The The Annual Autumn Scientific Meeting of the Mycological Association of Korea was held at Dongkuk University, Seoul, 19-20th December, 1997. The meeting was organised in conjunction with the Third Korea-China Joint Mycological Seminar which included over 20 mycologists from mainland China. The next Korea-China Joint Mycological Seminar is scheduled to be held in China in 1999, and mycologists from other countries are encouraged to attend. Further information can be obtained from Dr. M.W.Lee, President, Mycological Society of Korea, Dongkuk University, Seoul, Korea.

TAIWAN

A symposium on identification techniques for mycological resources was held at the National Museum of Natural Science (NMNS) in Taichung from 19-21 December, 1997. The purpose of the symposium, which was sponsored by the National Science Council Life Science Promotion Center, was to develop an interest in mycology among the younger generation of Taiwan. Professor Z.C. Chen, Chairman of IMACA, chaired the symposium and fifteen specialists were invited to give lectures in their particular areas of expertise. Undergraduates and graduates from colleges and universities throughout the country were among 136 participants attending the meeting. The symposium included a day of lectures at the NMNS followed by a two-day fungal foray centred around the Hei-Sun Forest Experimental Station, National Chung-Hsing University which is located approximately 1500 metres above sea-level. 

In May this year, Professor F. Oberwinkler, President of the International Mycological Association, and Dr. J.C. Chen visited Taiwan in order to collect jelly fungi from the Central Mountains area. During his visit, Professor Oberwinkler delivered a seminar entitled "Basidiomycetes and their host plants - coevolving associations" in the Department of Botany at the National Taiwan University