Ash-tree Bolete

Description:

Nearly flat, smooth, fan-shaped cap that was dark brown near the stem and tan at the margin. The yellow pores were radially elongated with many cross-veins.

Habitat:

Growing on rotting wood in a mixed forest.

Notes:

Although this mushroom only grows under ash trees, it is not a mycorrhizal fungus. Rather, it is speculated that it is involved in a symbiotic relationship with Meliarhizophagus fraxinifolii (Leafcurl Ash Aphid). In this relationship, the mushroom's mycelium forms little knots of tissue, called sclerotia, which surround and protect the aphid. In exchange, the aphid's honeydew provides nutrients to the fungus.