Woody bracket fungus

Description:

Woody bracket fungus often grows as a layer, covering the tree trunk for a yard or more. From the surface of this layer the bracket-like growths arise, usually at short intervals from each other, and when fully grown may project an inch or more. The fungi on this living tree are very large. The largest one is on the right of the tree and measures approximately 15 inches across. They are leathery, woody, or membranous from the very beginning of their growth. The upper side often shows successive years of growth. The lower surface is composed of numerous minute pores through which astronomical numbers of spores are released. Some bracket fungi have been recorded at 50-70 years old.

Habitat:

Woody bracket fungus grow on the trunks of dead trees. Some species are serious parasites of living trees. This spotting was on a live big tree.