Terana caerulea (Cobalt Crust)

This is a resupinate, meaning it lies on the surface of the substrate with it's fertile surface (hymenium) exposed to the outside. It tends to be dark blue and may have a lighter margin. When fresh it has a waxy or velvety texture, though when dry is crusty and brittle.

Typically found on the underside of fallen branches. This is so the fertile surface is pointing down which helps spores to disperse.

Spores: creamy white tend to be dispersed in autumn

It is saprotrophic causing white rot. This means it breaks down the tough brown lignins in wood leaving whitish cellulose.

Note: it can be used in the production of the antibiotic cortalcerone which is used agains Streptococcus pyogenes.

Can rehydrate and become active again after drying out.

Distribution: World wide. Generally found in warm temperate regions.