The role of the ECCF in studies and conservation of fungi in Europe

The European Council for the Conservation of Fungi (ECCF) promotes and co-ordinates efforts for protection of fungi in Europe. Activities over the last 19 years are summarised. The ECCF is seen as a link between research and practice, with provision of information as its most important task. Current projects include European-level mapping of selected species and a European Red List of larger fungi. Examples from various countries are given of conservation strategies (e.g. monitoring, mapping, selection of Important Fungus Areas), public relations (protected species, flagship species, species of the year), and management guidelines for macromycetes.