The sixth volume in the series Medicinal and Aromatic Plants - Industrial Profiles is written by experts actively working in ergot research. Ergot (Claviceps purpurrea) is best known as a disease of rye and grasses. It is probably the most widely cultivated fungus and it has become an important field crop. Ergot alkaloids, which are extensively used in medicine, are the main reason for its importance. The book begins with the history of ergot research which is comparable to that of the discovery of penicillin. Review articles on Claviceps taxonomy, genetics, biogenesis and pharmacology are based on recent achievements in molecular biology - some of them published here for the first time. The chapters on ergot cultivation, physiology and biotechnology are written by distinguished experts in industry. Sections dealing with the chemistry of ergot alkaloids and biotransformation are comprehensive and serve as good reference material. Unique information on world producers and