Biology 800, "The Higher Fungi" is a graduate level course exploring the biology and systematics of fungi belonging to the group Basidiomycetes. Fungi that will be investigated include all those that produce large (i.e., macroscopic) reproductive structures. Particular attention will be given to taxonomy and ecology. Evolution, physiology, biogeography, and nomenclature of higher fungi will be discussed.Biology 800 is a lecture and laboratory course; it is not a seminar course. Accordingly, there will be several midterm exams, a final exam, laboratory practical exams, and a collection.

COURSE FORMAT:Each class period will begin with a lecture, followed by a discussion/question period and laboratory exercise. Some lab exercises are predesigned to help familiarize you with fungal structures, processes, identifications, etc. Others will be designed as the course proceeds, dictated by the types and amounts of fresh mushrooms available. Some lab periods will be unstructured; you should use these periods to work on identifying the specimens you have collected or work on your project. Ample breaks will be provided during the 5 hour class period!

PROJECT:Each student will write complete descriptions of six (6) different species that they have collected. Descriptions will include data on macromorphology and micromorphological analysis, presented in a format designed by your instructor. All descriptions must be typed and must be accompanied by dried voucher specimens. GRADING:This is a graduate course. Grading will be somewhat subjective, based on how well each student did on midterms, final exam, project, class participation, field participation, and accumulated knowledge of the subject matter. You are required to have fun and enjoy the semester!