The search, recording, photography, and attempt to identify species is an attractive occupation for the friend of the forest, nature, and knowledge. However, the collection of delicious edible mushrooms is perhaps the most exciting part of the process for most, as it satisfies our foraging instinct while simultaneously offering us the opportunity for movement and exercise in a natural environment and for observing the dozens of life forms that coexist - and with us - in the forest. Essential tools for the collector are the knife and the basket. The basket allows the mushrooms to breathe while simultaneously protecting them from being mashed, unlike the plastic bag which accelerates - especially during warm periods - their spoilage. (. . .) [Excerpt from publisher or edition presentation text]