Pycnoporus sanguineus

Pycnoporus sanguineus is a species of fungus in the family Polyporaceae. It is commonly known as the Cinnabar Polypore or Cinnabar-red Polypore due to its bright red-orange color. This fungus is widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions around the world, and is known for its role in wood decay and its potential uses in bioremediation.

Taxonomy

The species was first described scientifically by Miles Joseph Berkeley in 1845. The genus name Pycnoporus comes from the Greek words pyknos (dense) and porus (pore), referring to the dense pores on the underside of the fruiting body. The species name sanguineus is Latin for "bloody", referring to the bright red color of the fungus.

Description

Pycnoporus sanguineus is a bracket fungus, meaning it has a fruiting body that grows out from the side of a tree or log in a shelf-like manner. The fruiting bodies are typically 3–10 cm in diameter, and are bright red-orange in color. The underside of the fruiting body is covered in dense pores, which are the site of spore production.

Habitat and distribution

Pycnoporus sanguineus is found in tropical and subtropical regions around the world, including parts of Africa, Asia, Australia, Central and South America, and the Caribbean. It grows on dead or dying wood, and is a saprophyte, meaning it obtains its nutrients by decomposing organic matter.

Uses

Pycnoporus sanguineus has been studied for its potential uses in bioremediation, the process of using organisms to remove or neutralize pollutants from a contaminated site. The fungus has been shown to be effective in breaking down certain types of industrial dyes and other pollutants. It also has potential uses in the production of enzymes and other biotechnological applications.

See also

• List of Polyporaceae species
• Fungi of Australia

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