What is this tree epiphyte?

[Wills]

Hi I have a tree with a dead branch in my garden and its been taken over by this epiphyte plant and I dont know what it is?

It starts as these little tufts but on some branches it is a full structured plant with stems etc like in pic 2. I'm fairly certain it is an epiphyte as it is growing on the wood. The reason Im curious is I have some wood breaking the surface of my tank and if it is safe I might take some of it from the tree and put it onto the wood and see if it takes off.

Thanks Wills

 

[connorlindeman]

Interesting... Do you know what type of tree it is?

 

[Wills]

Interesting... Do you know what type of tree it is?

I think its a type of birch but not 100%

 

[Guyb93]

Beard lichens of some sort maybe ?

 

[Wills]

Beard lichens of some sort maybe ?

I did wonder that but the bigger growth looks really different, it actually has leaves.

 

[Guyb93]

I did wonder that but the bigger growth looks really different, it actually has leaves.

Pretty cool to be fair , is it rooted in the tree or just growing from the bark

 

[connorlindeman]

Its witches broom disease.

https://extension.umd.edu/resource/witches-broom-trees#:~:text=Witches'%20brooms%20can%20be%20a,%2C%20willow%20oak%2C%20and%20ninebark.

Signs And Symptoms Of Witches' Broom On Trees And Shrubs

Ever seen those odd-looking, broom-like distortions in a tree? Perhaps it's one of yours or in a tree nearby. What are these and do they cause any harm? Read here to find out more about witches' broom disease.

www.gardeningknowhow.com

 

[Guyb93]

Its witches broom disease.

https://extension.umd.edu/resource/witches-broom-trees#:~:text=Witches'%20brooms%20can%20be%20a,%2C%20willow%20oak%2C%20and%20ninebark.

Signs And Symptoms Of Witches' Broom On Trees And Shrubs

Ever seen those odd-looking, broom-like distortions in a tree? Perhaps it's one of yours or in a tree nearby. What are these and do they cause any harm? Read here to find out more about witches' broom disease.

www.gardeningknowhow.com

Great shout ,looks bang on from photos