Devil's tooth
A species of Hydnellum, Also known as Bleeding tooth fungus, Bleeding hydnellum Scientific name : Hydnellum peckii Genus : Hydnellum
Devil's tooth, A species of Hydnellum
Also known as:
Bleeding tooth fungus, Bleeding hydnellum
Scientific name: Hydnellum peckii
Genus: Hydnellum
Photo By Holger Krisp , used under CC-BY-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Distinctive and otherworldly, the irregularly-shaped fungal bodies of devil's tooth (Hydnellum peckii) produce red droplets all over their white or cream colored surfaces - almost as though they have been punctured dozens of times over and are bleeding out. The fungi's underside is not gilled, but is rather covered in white or pink tooth-like projections that disseminate its spores. Though inedible, this species is prized by dye makers, producing strong green and blue hues.
Colors
Brown
Gray
White
Habitat
Devil's tooth occurs in coniferous woodlands, and it's primarily associated with pines. It feeds in a symbiotic relationship with the tree’s roots, helping it absorb water and nutrients while the tree provides it sugars and amino acids. Its fruitbodies grow up from the ground, in duff under conifers.
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People often ask
General Info
Habitat
Devil's tooth occurs in coniferous woodlands, and it's primarily associated with pines. It feeds in a symbiotic relationship with the tree’s roots, helping it absorb water and nutrients while the tree provides it sugars and amino acids. Its fruitbodies grow up from the ground, in duff under conifers.
Growth Form
Mycorrhizal; solitary, scattered
Sporocarp Height
2 inches
Cap Diameter
5 inches
Endangered Species
No
Habit
Mycorrhizal
Smell
Mild to disagreeable
Spore Print
Brown
Species Status
Wide distribution in North America
Distribution Area
North America,Europe
How to identify it?
Similar Species
Photo By Holger Krisp , used under CC-BY-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Club fungi Class
Mushroom-forming fungi Order
Thelephorales Family
Bankeraceae Genus
Hydnellum Species
Devil's tooth