The Fungi world (29) : Hoof fungus

This fungus was used by ancient nomadic people as tinder for fire starting and to transport the fire from one place to another as it burns very very slowly and can smoulder for many hours.
Can be found all year round.

Something very interesting to know :
This fungus is one of the fungi the "Iceman" had with him.
You remember the Ötzi Iceman, don't you? An incredibly well-preserved 5000 year old Neolithic man found in 1991 in a glacier near the border of Austria and Italy.
In his pouch was a black felt-like substance. Profound scientific research proved it was originating from the Hoof fungus !

Dutch name : Echte tonderzwam
German name : Zunderschwamm
Latin name : Fomes fomentarius