Downy chess is an uncommon term in the English language. It refers to a type of fungus commonly found growing on dead or dying trees, branches, and stumps. Synonyms for downy chess include the common names for this fungus, which are usually more recognizable. These include birch polypore, razor strop fungus, and birch bracket fungus. Other synonyms include black hoof fungus, razor strop mushroom, and tinder fungus. Downy chess is not a term commonly used in everyday conversation, making it important to have alternative names to describe this unique fungus. Regardless of which term is used, however, it remains an interesting and important part of many ecosystems.