Ganoderma applanatum

Ganoderma applanatum, also known as the Artist's Bracket or Artist's Conk, is a bracket fungus with a cosmopolitan distribution. This species of fungi belongs to the Ganoderma genus, which is a group of fungi characterized by their hard, woody basidiocarps, and their ability to break down lignin and cellulose.

Taxonomy

The Ganoderma applanatum was first described by Elias Magnus Fries in 1797. The species name "applanatum" is derived from the Latin word "applanatus", meaning "flattened", which refers to the fungus's flat growth habit.

Description

The Ganoderma applanatum is a polypore fungus, meaning it has pores instead of gills on the underside of the fruiting body. The fruiting bodies are perennial, often surviving for multiple years. They are typically fan-shaped or irregular in shape, with the upper surface being a dark brown to black color, and the underside being a lighter brown. The spores of the Ganoderma applanatum are brown and elliptical in shape.

Habitat and distribution

Ganoderma applanatum is a saprotrophic fungus, meaning it feeds on dead organic matter. It is commonly found on dead and decaying hardwood trees, although it can also be found on coniferous trees. The fungus has a cosmopolitan distribution, being found in many different parts of the world.

Uses

In addition to its role in the ecosystem as a decomposer, Ganoderma applanatum has several uses for humans. The fungus is commonly used in traditional medicine, particularly in Asia, for its supposed health benefits. The fruiting bodies are also used in art, as the white underside of the fungus can be scratched to create images, hence the common name "Artist's Conk".

See also

• Ganoderma lucidum
• Ganoderma tsugae
• Polypore