Fungus Identification

Overview

Fungus identification is the process of detecting, recording, and accurately identifying fungal fruiting bodies present on or near trees, soil, or decaying wood. In arboriculture and ecology, fungal presence can provide critical information about tree health, wood decay, soil conditions and habitat value.

Purpose and Relevance

• To assess the structural condition of trees, particularly where decay fungi may be present.
• To understand the ecological role of fungi in woodland or parkland environments.
• To determine the presence of protected, rare or indicator species.
• To inform tree risk assessments, veteran tree management and habitat enhancement plans.

Typical Procedure

1. Visual Inspection:
• Surveyor examines trunks, buttresses, roots, and surrounding ground for fungal fruiting bodies (e.g., brackets, toadstools, crusts).
• Photographs and notes are taken for documentation.
2. Identification:
• Identification is based on visual characteristics such as shape, colour, texture, spore colour and location.
• Commonly recorded species include:
• Ganoderma spp. – associated with butt and root decay.
• Kretzschmaria deusta – structurally significant stem base decay.
• Inonotus hispidus – found on ash and other broadleaves.
• Armillaria spp. (Honey fungus) – root decay and general decline.
• Polyporus squamosus (Dryad’s Saddle) – trunk decay, often non-critical.
• When uncertain, samples may be collected for microscopic examination or DNA analysis by a laboratory.
3. Interpretation:
• Arborist assesses the implications for tree stability and health based on the species identified and its known decay pattern.
• Fungal presence is considered alongside tree condition, site use and risk targets.