Irpex destruens

Irpex destruens is a species of fungus in the family Steccherinaceae. It is a white rot fungus, known for its ability to decompose lignin in wood, contributing to the natural process of wood decay.

Taxonomy

The species was first described scientifically by mycologist Julius Oscar Brefeld in 1888. The specific epithet destruens is derived from the Latin word for "destroying", referring to the fungus's destructive nature on wood.

Description

The fruit bodies of Irpex destruens are effused, meaning they are spread out flat and closely attached to the substrate. The hyphal system is monomitic, consisting of generative hyphae only. The spores are cylindrical to allantoid (sausage-shaped), hyaline (translucent), and smooth.

Habitat and distribution

Irpex destruens is a saprophytic fungus, meaning it obtains its nutrients from dead or decaying organic matter. It is particularly associated with decaying hardwood, especially oak and beech. The fungus is widely distributed and has been reported in various parts of the world, including North America, Europe, and Asia.

Ecological role

As a white rot fungus, Irpex destruens plays a crucial role in ecosystems by breaking down lignin in wood, a process that few other organisms can perform. This ability to decompose lignin allows the fungus to access and utilize the cellulose and hemicellulose in wood, contributing to the carbon cycle by returning carbon from wood back into the ecosystem.

See also

• List of Steccherinaceae species
• Wood-decay fungus