inzengae

Mediterranean Tinder Fungus

Fomes inzengae is a recently resurrected species that was historically considered a synonym of Fomes fomentarius. It represents the 'southern' or Mediterranean lineage of the Fomes fomentarius species complex. Morphologically, it is very similar to F. fomentarius, producing large, hoof-shaped, perennial conks with a hard, zonate crust. However, F. inzengae often exhibits a paler, more ochraceous-brown context that can be fluffier or more granular than the harder context of F. fomentarius sensu stricto. It is a vigorous white-rot fungus. This species is adapted to warmer, Mediterranean climates and has a significantly broader host range than F. fomentarius (which prefers Beech and Birch). F. inzengae is found on a wide variety of deciduous trees including Poplar, Oak, Willow, and Maple. It is of significant interest in research for its rapid growth rates at higher temperatures and its potential medicinal properties, which are likely comparable to those of the traditional Tinder Conk.