Mycocoenological studies in Poland. 1952-2002

Abstract

Polish mycosociological studies contribute remarkably to the European mycocoenology. They are widely cited in recent mycoecological research syntheses aiming at the elucidation of the role of fungi in the structure and functioning of plant communities. Thus, there is an urgent need of reviewing our mycosociological works published since the 50’s of the last century. Professor Andrzej Nespiak, who examined cap fungi in the Białowieża National Park, was the first to carry out mycocoenological research in Poland. His work was the turning point for the development of field mycological studies and inspired subsequent generations of our mycologists.

Mycosociological studies were also stimulated by numerous, frequently outstanding phytosociological examinations of vast areas of the country, particularly of the protected ones.

The list of 623 mycosociological publications, spanning over 50 years which coincide with the most extensive development of mycosociological studies in Poland, offers material that reflects current trends, approaches, advantages and limitations in research on the participation of fungi in phytocoenoses as well as on fungi forming their own communities.

Apart from classical mycosociological studies, focusing mostly on basidiomycetes, a few publications describing mycocoenotic role of microscopic fungi are also compiled, including symbiotic, saprotrophic and parasitizing fungi, aquatic and soil species.

A survey of mycosociological studies carried out in plant communities follows the MATUSZKIEWICZ’S (2001) system of plant syntaxonomy. It offers information which plant communities were investigated and how thoroughly, and which phytocoenoses were not examined mycologically. The project was undertaken to address interests of mycologists and phytosociologists. It is dedicated to the memory of Professor Andrzej Nespiak, the founder of the Polish school of mycosociology.