Orange-brown corticioid fungus Crustoderma ...

The provided image showcases a close-up view of an orange-brown corticioid fungus, specifically Crustoderma dryinum, growing on a burned pine log situated along the Richards Loop Trail in Sam Houston National Forest, Texas. The photograph was taken on January 27, 2024.

Upon closer inspection, it becomes apparent that the fungus has colonized the surface of the log to some extent, but its growth is still relatively sparse and limited compared to the vast majority of the log's surface area. The overall texture and coloration of the fungus exhibit a rough, bumpy appearance, which may be indicative of its corticioid nature.

The image provides a clear visual representation of Crustoderma dryinum in its natural habitat, offering valuable insights into the characteristics and distribution of this species within the Sam Houston National Forest ecosystem. – AI vision