British Earthstars

British Earthstars

It has been 31 years since the last book was published that comprehensively dealt with the British species of earthstars (British Puffballs, Earthstars and Stinkhorns, Pegler et al. 1995). These are captivating fungi that form a star shaped fruiting body with a central spore sac from which the spores are discharged.

British Earthstars updates this important work detailing the 19 accepted British species of earthstar: 17 species of Geastrum; 1 species of Myriostoma; 1 species of Astraeus.

Richly illustrated in full colour throughout its 162 pages with over 150 photos and drawings, the book introduces and explains the structure of an earthstar and the key features to look for. A synoptic key is given based on easy to recognise visual features which is also complimented by a dichotomous key.

Each species is given a full macroscopic and microscopic description along with notes on habitat, distribution, key field characteristics, comparison to other species including European earthstars. A species photograph together with a distribution heat map is shown along with a high magnification photograph of the spores. Each species then has at least 6 further photographs showing (for example) different stages of growth along with close ups of other critical features.

Four colour plates further compliment the species descriptions and then 13 non-British species are shown with accompanying notes.

Not only does this update the “Kew” book but it is also a personal account of the author’s 50 years of field experience searching, finding and recording these incredible fungi centred around the productive area of East Anglia, a rich area for these uncommon to rare fungi.

Written and designed to be accessible for both beginners and experienced mycologists alike or those who just have a general interest in these extraordinary fungi, this is a book that will further raise the profile of the wonderful world of earthstars.