Zoned tooth  (Hydnellum concrescens)

Learn about the scientific name of this species and how it fits into the tree of life at Nature Navigator.

Description

The zoned tooth fungus belongs to the stipitate hydnoid fungi group, also known as the 'tooth fungi'. Members of this group share some morphological characters, but are not a naturally related group (5) (6). They are known as tooth fungi since they release their spores from tooth-like structures. The fruit bodies (the visible part of the fungus) are terrestrial and have a short stalk or 'stipe', hence the name 'stipitate' (5). The teeth are on the underside of the fruit body (5). The flesh of Hydnellum concrescens is leathery, becoming corky when it dries. The cap often has an irregular shape (5), and usually displays obvious growth zones, which form layers (7). Caps may fuse into one mass with a number of stalks, and can surround twigs, leaves or blades of grass (7).

WARNING: many species of fungus are poisonous or contain chemicals that can cause sickness. Never pick and eat any species of fungus that you cannot positively recognise or are unsure about. Some species are deadly poisonous and can cause death within a few hours if swallowed.

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