Be this Ganoderma lucidum?

[Kveldssanger]

Specifically because of the (seeming) stalk. Very sheltered little bracket in a hornbeam that I at first through was resinaceum, though coming back a month later it struck me as perhaps lucidum.

 

[David Humphries]

To difficult to confirm without microscopy.

 

The two species can be similar in form and resinaceum is thought to also produce a stalk when it's growing environment makes that nessecary

 

These lucidums (also from hornbeam) have the classic stalk which more often than not is required to raise the fruit body off the ground to release the spores as opposed to resinaceum which. 'Usually' erupts from the trunk.

 

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[Kveldssanger]

This was in the centre of an old 'coppard' (probably from old hedgerow management), so was elevated naturally. It was only the appearance of the stalk that suggested it may be lucidum. Relating back to this specific tree, I would say that a stalk would have been necessary for the fungus in this position if it were resi, as otherwise it'd have just grown in the slight depression and the spores would have sunk into the same depression.

 

I'll mark this one down as suspected resi, though note it could be lucidum. A microscope is outta my budget range right now I imagine!

[David Humphries]

Thought about sending samples to the mycology dept at kew for Id?

 

 

 

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[kevinjohnsonmbe]

Thought about sending samples to the mycology dept at kew for Id?

 

 

 

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Do they accept / welcome samples from Joe Public David?

 

If so, do you know if there is a fee or a website link that details procedures, turn around times etc?

[Kveldssanger]

I can do. I have the same questions as Kevin does.

[David Humphries]

Send an email to the mycology section via Dr Martin Ainsworth (Senior researcher in fungal convservation) at the Jodrell Labs

 

[email protected]

 

I used to send samples to him direct, but be advised that he's often away on field trips abroad.

 

If an Id is required for professional purposes there will be a charge, but personal 'may' be no charge.

 

There are procedures with voucher specimens that you will need to adhere to, so perhaps best to get in contact with him or a colleague and start a dialogue.

 

I learnt a lot through this interaction.

 

 

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[Kveldssanger]

Thank you, David - I'll do exactly that.

 

Any tips on storing the bracket until I can get it sent? Currently it's in a tupperware tub on my desk!

[David Humphries]

Depends on the moisture content of the specimen.

 

If it's relatively dry (Fomes type bracket) then it's probably fine to just store in a breathable container until you post it.

 

If it's failry wet (Fistulina type bracket) then it's important that it's dried in warm (40-50C or so) moving air (fungus drier, airing cupboard, boiler room, over radiator etc) so doesn’t get cooked.

 

Otherwise it may just be a pile of mush before anyone at the labs gets the chance to have a look at it.

 

 

 

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[Kveldssanger]

It's very dry. I'll place it in a container with some air holes. Thanks, again.