Since 1975, the Federal Institute for Research on the forest, snow and landscape of Birmensdorf has been conducting long-term research in a fungal reserve. Its aim is to determine the effects of various factors — mushroom harvesting, forestry operations, microclimatic factors — on the diversity and productivity of macromycetes in forests. The article examines the possibilities for improving fruitbody productivity and the specific difficulties of intensifying edible mushroom production.