Cryptoporus volvatus 

Cryptoporus volvatus 04150

Cryptoporus volvatus (Peck) Shear 1902

The polypore Cryptoporus volvatus emerges from conifer bark that has first been invaded by pine bark beetles which reproduce and damage the wood between the bark and the sapwood. The bark beetles themselves are the vectors by which the spores of this fungus are distributed. The pore surface of Cryptoporus volvatus is covered by a flap of tissue. When mature, the spores drop onto this flap, which then develops a tiny opening. Beetles in search of spores eat through the covering. The spores are then spread primarily by contact with the beetles themselves and their excrement. This fungus is typically only seen within a year or so of the tree's death. It is in the Polyporaceae family of the Polyporales order.

Cryptoporus volvatus 04149
Cryptoporus volvatus7720

Cryptoporus volvatus