Phellinus gilvus

Phellinus gilvus is a species of fungus in the family Hymenochaetaceae. It is commonly known as the "Mustard Yellow Polypore" or "Yellow-footed Polypore". This fungus is a saprophyte, meaning it feeds on dead organic matter, and is found primarily on hardwood trees.

Taxonomy

The species was first described scientifically by Elias Magnus Fries in 1821. The genus name Phellinus is derived from the Greek word phellinos, meaning "cork-like", which refers to the texture of the fruit bodies of these fungi. The species name gilvus is Latin for "pale yellow", referring to the color of the fungus.

Description

The fruit bodies of Phellinus gilvus are polypores, meaning they have pores on the underside of the cap where the spores are released. The cap is semicircular or fan-shaped, and can reach up to 10 cm in diameter. The upper surface is rough and corky, and is typically a mustard yellow color. The pore surface is also yellow, but fades to a paler shade with age.

Distribution and habitat

Phellinus gilvus is widely distributed in North America, Europe, and Asia. It is typically found on dead or dying hardwood trees, particularly oak and beech. It can also occasionally be found on conifers. The fungus is a saprophyte, meaning it feeds on dead organic matter, and plays an important role in the decomposition of wood in forest ecosystems.

Edibility

While not considered poisonous, Phellinus gilvus is generally regarded as inedible due to its tough, corky texture. Some sources suggest that it may have medicinal properties, but these claims have not been scientifically validated.

See also

• List of Phellinus species
• Fungi of Europe
• Fungi of North America