Albatrellus ovinus is a terrestrial fungus found in Europe and North America. Although commonly known as sheep polypore, this fungus is not phylogenetically related to Polyporales (shelf fungi).
It similar to A. subrubescens, from which it may be distinguished microscopically.
Description The cap is wide, convex then flat or depressed, and white then tan or pinkish. The surface is dry and smooth but cracks with age. The whitish stalk is tall and wide, perhaps branching, with an equal or larger base. The spore print is white.
Similar species The inedible, closely related and comparatively rare Albatrellus subrubescens has subtle color differences from A. ovinus, and the only spores of the former are amyloid.W. Julich, 1984: Die Nichtblatterpilze, Gallertpilze und Bauchpilze. Kleine Kryptogamenflora Band II Teil b/1J. Breitenbach, F. Kranzlin, 1986: Pilze der Schweiz, Band 2. Nichtblatterpilze.
Also similar are Albatrellus flettii, Jahnoporus hirtus, Scutiger ellisii, and S. pes-caprae.
Distribution and habitat It is found in northern Europe and in North America. In the latter, it is found from the Pacific Northwest to Northern California, in addition to the Mountain states, the Great Lakes area, the Appalachians, and the Northeast.
Uses The species may be edible if cooked thoroughly, but is typically slimy and may have a laxative effect. It is not recommended by some guides.
It is sold commercially in Finland.
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