Trichoderma peltatum is a species of fungus in the family Hypocreaceae, characterized by its greenish-yellow to yellowish-green conidial masses and peltate conidiophores. In East and Central Texas, it has been found on decaying wood and other organic substrates, often in moist, shaded areas. The fungus produces small, rounded conidia and has a widespread distribution in the region, with collections reported from various counties, including Bastrop, Brazos, and Houston.
Mushrooms Trichoderma peltatum (Hypocrea peltata) together with Trentepohlia alga on an oak log in Lick Creek Park. College Station, Texas, July 9, 2018 Iron Bridge Trail, College Station, TX 77845, USA
Close up of Trichoderma peltatum (Hypocrea peltata) mushroom in Lick Creek Park. College Station, Texas, July 9, 2018 Iron Bridge Trail, College Station, TX 77845, USA
Dissected Trichoderma peltatum (Hypocrea peltata) mushroom in Lick Creek Park. College Station, Texas, July 9, 2018 Iron Bridge Trail, College Station, TX 77845, USA
Mushrooms Trichoderma peltatum (Hypocrea peltata) on a fallen oak branch in Lick Creek Park. College Station, Texas, July 9, 2018 Iron Bridge Trail, College Station, TX 77845, USA
Mushrooms Trichoderma peltatum (Hypocrea peltata) together with Trentepohlia alga and lichens on a fallen oak branch in Lick Creek Park. College Station, Texas, July 9, 2018 Iron Bridge Trail, College Station, TX 77845, USA
Mushroom Trichoderma peltatum (Hypocrea peltata) together with various lichens on a fallen oak branch in Lick Creek Park. College Station, Texas, July 9, 2018 Iron Bridge Trail, College Station, TX 77845, USA
Mushrooms Trichoderma peltatum on an oak log in Lick Creek Park. College Station, Texas, October 3, 2018 Raccoon Run, College Station, TX 77845, USA
Mushrooms Trichoderma peltatum on a rotting oak log in Lick Creek Park. College Station, Texas, October 3, 2018 Raccoon Run, College Station, TX 77845, USA
Dissected mushrooms Trichoderma peltatum on a rotting oak log in Lick Creek Park. College Station, Texas, October 3, 2018 Raccoon Run, College Station, TX 77845, USA
AI-generated summary of observations
Trichoderma peltatum was observed growing on oak logs and fallen branches in Lick Creek Park, College Station, Texas. The fungus was found in combination with Trentepohlia alga and various lichens. Observations were made on July 9, 2018, and October 3, 2018, indicating the fungus's presence during different times of the year. Close-up and dissected views of the mushrooms revealed their structure. The fungus was also found growing on rotting oak logs, suggesting its role in decomposition. Multiple observations of Trichoderma peltatum in the same location over time suggest it is a common species in East and Central Texas, particularly in areas with decaying wood. The association with other organisms like algae and lichens highlights the complex interactions within these ecosystems.