Trametes
(from trama, the layer in Hymenomycetes that supports the hymenium, or spore-bearing surface on each side of it, in the gills or in the partitions between the pores). A genus of Fungi nearly allied to Polyporus (which see), from which, indeed, it differs in little save that in Trametes the substance of the trama is similar to that of the pileus, while in Polyporus it is different. The general form of the Fungi in the genus, and the situation and appearance of the pores in which the hymenium is situated, are well exemplified in T. Pini Nine species have been discovered in Britain, growing on various trees and shrubs, but all rare. T. Pini is, however, by no means rare on the Continent, where it sometimes does great injury to living Conifers, chiefly to Pines and Larches, but also frequently to Spruces, and less often to Silver Firs. In these trees it produces a condition known as the "Red Rot." The reproductive organs of the Fungus grow out of the sides of the trees, as rusty-brown masses of the form figured, and are from 3in. to 6in. across; and they continue to slowly increase in size for a long time. The wood is destroyed by the action of the mycelium of the Fungus. The other species of Trametes are not very hurtful. Hartig's T. radiciperda is a synonym of Polyporus annosus, which is a most dangerous foe to Conifers, and also, though less often, to dicotyledonous trees, destroying the roots and trunks. Remedies. The treatment required is similar to that recommended for Polyporus.
