Close-up of a cap of polypore mushroom ...

The image presents a detailed close-up of a polypore mushroom cap, specifically identifying it as Bresadolia craterella (Polyporus craterellus). The mushroom is situated on a fallen hackberry tree trunk within a wet area of Lick Creek Park in College Station, Texas.

**Key Features:**

* **Mushroom Cap:** The cap exhibits a light brown to tan color with a smooth, velvety surface. It has a rounded shape and is approximately 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) in diameter.
* **Flesh Color:** The flesh of the mushroom is white or pale yellowish-white, which may turn darker when bruised.
* **Stem:** A short stem, known as a stipe, is visible at the base of the cap. It is cylindrical and about 1/4 inch (6 mm) thick.

**Environmental Context:**

* **Location:** The mushroom was found in Lick Creek Park, College Station, Texas.
* **Habitat:** It grew on a fallen hackberry tree trunk in a wet area of the park.

**Identification:**

* **Species:** Bresadolia craterella (Polyporus craterellus), also known as the common bracket polypore or the cratered polypore.
* **Classification:** The mushroom belongs to the genus Polyporus, which includes several species of bracket fungi. It is a type of polypore that grows on trees and stumps.

**Additional Information:**

* **Edibility:** While some sources suggest that Bresadolia craterella may be edible when cooked, others consider it inedible or unpalatable due to its tough, fibrous texture.
* **Habitat Preference:** This species typically grows on deciduous trees, especially oak and beech, but can also be found on coniferous trees like pine.

In summary, the image provides a detailed view of a Bresadolia craterella mushroom growing on a fallen hackberry tree trunk in Lick Creek Park. The mushroom exhibits characteristic features such as its smooth, velvety cap and white or pale yellowish-white flesh. Its habitat preference is for deciduous trees, and while it may be edible when cooked, caution should be exercised due to its tough texture. – AI vision