Climacodon pulcherrimus

Climacodon pulcherrimus produces fan-shaped, bracket-like basidiomata that can exceed 10 cm in diameter. The upper surface is densely hirsute/hairy, whitish to brown or with orange tones. The hymenophore is covered with hydnoid spines or teeth up to 8 mm long.

An invasive species of American origin that has been expanding across Europe in recent years. In our region it is encountered with increasing frequency, showing a marked preference for European beech (Fagus sylvatica).

The microscopic study is based on a collection made in late June on dead wood of Castanea sativa in Artea (Bizkaia).

Additional photographs represent collections from beech wood in Orozko and Orduña (Bizkaia) and on Corylus avellana wood in Amurrio (Álava).