Artomyces pyxidatus

Artomyces pyxidatus
Image Courtesy of Peter Katsaros
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Group of Fungi: Coral Fungi

Family: Auriscalpiaceae

Latin Name: Artomyces pyxidatus (Pers.) Jülich

Synonym(s): Clavicorona pyxidata (Pers.) Doty

Common Name: Crown-tipped Coral Fungus

Description: Multi-branched structure arising from a short, stalk-like base, up to 4 in (10 cm) high and 3/4–2 1/2 in (2–6.5 cm) wide, white to pale yellow or pink; branching pattern candelabra-like, ultimate branches with cup-shaped, crown-like tips; spores white in mass.

Biological Role: Decomposer of wood.

Habitat: On decaying logs and branches of broadleaf trees.

Geographical Distribution: Found throughout North America and elsewhere in the Northern Hemisphere.

Comments: This is one of the few coral fungi found on decaying wood. The crown-like tips of the branches are unlike those of any of the other coral fungi, thus making this species relatively easy to identify.



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