Corticium penicillatum

Corticium penicillatum is a species of fungus in the family Corticiaceae. It is a type of Basidiomycota, which is a large division that, together with the Ascomycota, constitutes the subkingdom Dikarya.

Taxonomy

The species was first described scientifically by Christiaan Hendrik Persoon in 1796. The genus Corticium was established by Elias Magnus Fries in 1832. The name Corticium is derived from the Latin word cortex, meaning "bark", and refers to the typical growth habit of these fungi on the bark of trees.

Description

Corticium penicillatum is characterized by its pink to salmon color, and its smooth, waxy texture. The fruit bodies of the fungus are typically found growing on the dead wood of broadleaf trees. The fruit bodies are flat, crust-like, and can cover large areas of the substrate. The spores are cylindrical, smooth, and hyaline.

Distribution and habitat

Corticium penicillatum is widely distributed and can be found in various regions around the world, including North America, Europe, and Asia. It is commonly found in deciduous forests, where it grows on the dead wood of various species of broadleaf trees.

Edibility

While not typically considered a choice edible species, Corticium penicillatum is not known to be poisonous. However, due to its tough, leathery texture, it is not generally sought after for culinary use.

See also

• List of Corticium species
• Mycology