At a glance
Essentials
- Distribution
- Global distribution.
- Habitat
- Grows on dead wood of deciduous trees.
Observation guide
What to look for
- 01
Upper surface with concentric bands of varied colors.
- 02
Semicircular fruiting body, without a stem, with leathery flesh of 1-3 mm.
- 03
Porous lower surface, whitish to light brown in color.
Lighting, age and viewing angle can hide features. If identification affects consumption, handling or conservation, consult specialist sources.
Ecology
Description and characteristics
The fruiting body of Trametes versicolor has a semicircular or fan shape, with no discernible stem, and a leathery flesh 1 to 3 mm thick. The upper surface is flat and exhibits concentric bands of different colors, while the lower surface has a whitish to light brown porous hymenium. This fungus is a saprotroph that commonly grows in overlapping layers on the trunks and stumps of deciduous trees. It is classified as a white rot fungus, as it degrades the lignin of lignocellulosic materials by secreting ligninolytic enzymes.