Group of Fungi: Agarics

Family: Auriscalpiaceae

Latin Name: Lentinellus ursinus (Fr.) Kühner

Common Name: Bear Lentinus

Description: Fan-shaped to kidney-shaped structure; cap 2–12 in (5–30 cm) across and 1/4–1/2 in (0.5–1.3 cm) thick, reddish brown but becoming paler towards the margin, upper surface densely hairy, especially towards the point of attachment; margin of cap incurved; gills closely spaced, dirty white to pinkish brown or tan, edges of gills distinctly saw-toothed; spores creamy white in mass.

Biological Role: Decomposer of wood.

Habitat: On fallen logs and stumps of broadleaf trees, less commonly on conifers; occurring as solitary fruiting bodies or in small groups.

Geographical Distribution: Widely distributed throughout North America.

Comments: The saw-toothed gills are distinctive. Lentinellus vulpinus is very similar to Lentinellus ursinus but has a cap that is pinkish white and a stalk-like base at the point of attachment. Neither fungus should be collected for the table.