Mushrooms of Southern Africa – Field Guide

Mushrooms of Southern Africa – Field Guide by Albert Eicker and G.C.A. van der Westhuizen (Struik Publishers, 1998) is a classic and comprehensive field guide designed to help naturalists, mycologists, foragers, and outdoor enthusiasts identify the wide variety of mushroom species found across southern Africa. First published in 1998, this English‑language paperback combines detailed text with clear visual material to make mushroom identification both accessible and informative.

Mushrooms of Southern Africa – Field Guide contains approximately 208 pages and features colour photographs showing mushrooms both in situ and in detailed views of key parts to aid accurate recognition. Opposite each photo, explanatory text clearly describes distinguishing features, habitats, and relevant identifying criteria. The guide includes line drawings (about 115 in total)that illustrate anatomical details of fungal structures, and these appear throughout the introductory sections, glossary, and margins of species entries to support identification.

A practical identification key is provided in the introductory text, offering readers a quicker route to narrowing down unknown specimens. The authors also cover important subjects such as mushroom poisoning, safe collecting, and preserving specimens, making the book useful for both novice and more experienced field observers. About 160 speciesare described and illustrated, with margin symbols indicating edibility status (edible, unknown, inedible, poisonous, and deadly poisonous), giving readers essential guidance on the potential use or danger of each species.

Published by Struik Publishers in 1998, this edition of Mushrooms of Southern Africa – Field Guide has been widely used as a foundational reference for southern African mycology and natural history. Its balanced combination of clear text, diagnostic photography, and practical notes makes it a valuable resource for anyone interested in the region’s fungi — from hikers and photographers to students and serious mycological hobbyists.