Ash Tree Bolete (Boletinellus merulioides)
Growing in a moist, grassy/mossy area in an overgrown backyard habitat (below small maples, honeysuckle, and muscadine). Green ash trees are on the periphery of the yard but are a considerable distance from this location!
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Chemical analysis:
KOH- Dark brown to red on pileus. Orange/brown on pores. Pale orange/pink on flesh. Ammonia-Magenta on pileus.
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The Ash Tree Bolete, as its common name implies, is typically found from summer through fall, wherever ashes can be found. Despite being found near ash trees, it is does not have a mycorrhizal relationship with these trees. Surprisingly, it is part of a symbiotic relationship with the Leafcurl Ash Aphid (Meliarhizophagus fraxinifolii). The mycelium of the Ash Tree Bolete form knotted tissue (sclerotia) which form a protective barrier for the aphid. In return, the aphid provides nutrients to the fungus via honeydew.
''Boletinellus merulioides'', commonly known as the ash-tree bolete, is a species of bolete fungus in the family Boletinellaceae . Described as new to science in 1832, it is found in Asia and eastern North America, where it grows on the ground near ash trees.
