-Fungi Including Lichens ( Kingdom Fungi)

-Basidiomycete Fungi (Phylum Basidiomycota)

-Higher Basidiomycetes (Subphylum Agaricomycotina)

-Mushrooms, Bracket Fungi, Puffballs, and Allies (Class Agaricomycetes)

-Mushrooms, Bracket Fungi, Puffballs, and Allies -Class Agaricomycetes

-Order Hymenochaetales

-Family Hymenochaetaceae

-Genus Inonotus

Inonotus is a genus of wood-decaying fungi in the family Hymenochaetaceae, best known for producing bracket-like (shelf) or crusty fruiting bodies on living and dead trees. These fungi are widespread in temperate and tropical regions and are commonly associated with hardwoods. The fruiting bodies of Inonotus are often thick, irregular, and somewhat corky or fibrous, ranging in color from yellow and orange to brown or rusty tones. Some species are hairy or velvety on the upper surface, while the underside consists of a porous layer (rather than gills) where spores are produced. In certain species, droplets of amber or brown liquid may exude from the surface, giving them a “weeping” appearance.