Polypore fungi are a beautiful part of the forest. Most Polypore inhabit tree trunks or branches, consuming the wood. They are one of the most important agents of wood decay, playing a significant role in recycling nutrients back into the environment and aiding carbon dioxide absorption by forest ecosystems. Over one thousand Polypore species have been described, but a large part of the diversity is still unknown. They are much more diverse in old natural forests with abundant dead wood than in younger managed forests. Consequently, a number of species have declined drastically and are under threat of extinction due to logging and deforestation. Celebrate Autumn or Earth Day, invite friends to a Fall or Nature-themed gathering, or say Thank You to volunteers who help keep our natural world a beautiful place. The humble yet complex and beautiful Polypore thanks you.