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| Tree Fungus by Mark Kneller Inonotus hispidus This fungus is quite often found on fraxinus excelsior, although it can be found on other broadleaved trees.  Picture one (left) shows a fresh fruiting body on fraxinus excelsior, the picture was taken in early November 05.Picture two (right) was taken in mid May 06 and shows the same fruiting body with an obvious different appearance. The fruiting bodies vary from two and a half inches to twelve inches across and one to four inches thick. When the brackets first appear they are fleshy with a light brown upper surface and a velvety appearance with a white under surface. Once the brackets become more mature they are much darker on the upper and under surfaces and they loose their soft velvety appearance.  The decay of Inonotus hispidus has been classed as a white rot decay fungi, attacking cellulose and lignin at a similar rate especially on Ash. This affects the compression and tension timber at the same time; this in turn can cause the timber to become very brittle, depending on the characteristics of the timber infected. Ash is more seriously affected by Inonotus hispidus than most of the other broadleaved species.As with all fungi check with an experienced qualified arborist before you condemn a tree. All climbers should assess infected trees before they ascend, taking into account the extent of decay, the tree species and the work that they intend to carry out. Mark operates as an arborist and trainer based in Kent and undertakes a range of work for both private clients and Local Authorities. Mark is a qualified trainer offering NPTC courses in all aspects of arboriculture including the full suite of chainsaw modules and aerial platform training. He can be contacted on: 01634 244958 Email: mark@marksplants.fsbusiness.co.uk |
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