ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the distribution of fungal communities in tropical regions, noting the differences and similarities between groups of fungi that dominate selected habitats and substrates. The differences in tropical fungal communities and their special adaptations are highlighted and contrasted with those in temperate regions. The functional role of tropical fungi is also discussed and compared with those in other climatic zones. The hypothesis that fungi play a greater role throughout vertical strata of the forest than in other climatic zones is explored.
