Fomes lignosus

Fomes lignosus is a species of fungus belonging to the family Polyporaceae. It is commonly known as the "wooden tinder fungus" due to its hard, woody texture and its historical use as a fire starter.

Taxonomy

The species was first described scientifically by Elias Magnus Fries in 1851. The genus name Fomes comes from the Latin word for "tinder", while lignosus is derived from the Latin for "woody", referring to the fungus's hard, wood-like texture.

Description

Fomes lignosus is a polypore, meaning it has pores, or tubes, from which it releases its spores. The fruiting bodies of the fungus are perennial and woody, often appearing as a hoof-shaped growth on the trunks of dead or dying trees. The upper surface is grey to brown and often zoned with different colours, while the pore surface is white to cream.

Distribution and habitat

Fomes lignosus is widely distributed across the Northern Hemisphere, particularly in temperate and boreal forests. It is a saprophytic fungus, meaning it feeds on dead or decaying organic matter, and is most commonly found on dead hardwood trees, particularly oak and beech.

Uses

Historically, Fomes lignosus was used as a fire starter due to its ability to smoulder for long periods. The fungus was also used in traditional medicine in various cultures, although its efficacy is not scientifically proven.

See also

• List of Fomes species
• Polyporaceae