fungi · GBIF taxon 2549708
Reishi
Ganoderma sessileAlso known as Sessile Ganoderma, Varnish Shelf, Lacquer Fungus
This striking polypore grows as a shelf directly on the wood of decaying or living hardwoods, particularly oaks. Its fan-shaped cap features a highly varnished, reddish-brown surface that often fades to yellow and white toward the active growing margin. As a white-rot fungus, it plays a vital ecological role by breaking down tough lignin and cellulose in forest ecosystems.
Wood-DecayingPolyporeHardwood-Loving
- diet
- Saprophytic and Parasitic (wood-decaying)
- family
- Polyporaceae
- threats
- Habitat loss and removal of deadwood
- life Span
- Perennial mycelium with annual fruiting bodies
NE
Many wild mushrooms have toxic look-alikes; never ingest wild fungi based on app identification alone.
- Observe the attachment: Look closely at how the cap attaches directly to the wood without a stalk.
- Check the underside: Examine the white pore surface, which bruises brown when scratched or handled.
- Note the host tree: Identify the tree species, as this fungus strongly prefers oaks and other hardwoods.