Polypores are a group of fungi that form large fruiting bodies with pores or tubes on the underside. They are a morphological group of basidiomycetes-like gilled mushrooms and hydnoid fungi, and not all polypores are closely related to each other. Polypores are also called bracket fungi or shelf fungi, and they characteristically produce woody, shelf- or bracket-shaped or occasionally circular fruiting bodies that are called conks.
Polypores (Ganoderma sp.) growing on a tree in Borneo
Trametes versicolor, a colorful bracket fungus, commonly known as turkey tail
A bracket fungus (Pycnoporus sp.) with a tough, woody cap
The blushing bracket showing the red bruising, which is one identification characteristic
A fungus is any member of the group of eukaryotic organisms that includes microorganisms such as yeasts and molds, as well as the more familiar mushrooms. These organisms are classified as one of the traditional eukaryotic kingdoms, along with Animalia, Plantae and either Protista or Protozoa and Chromista.
Fungus
Omphalotus nidiformis, a bioluminescent mushroom
Bracket fungi on a tree stump
Widespread white fungus in wood chip mulch in an Oklahoma garden