Amanita bisporigera

Amanita bisporigera 17932

Amanita bisporigera

Amanita bisporigera, commonly known as the destroying angel, is a highly toxic basidiomycete fungus in the genus Amanita. It is one of the most poisonous mushrooms found in North America.

Description

Amanita bisporigera has a smooth, white cap that can range from 5 to 10 cm in diameter. The cap is initially convex, becoming flat with age. The gills are free from the stipe and are white, crowded, and do not change color upon bruising. The stipe is white, 7 to 15 cm tall, and 0.5 to 1.5 cm thick, with a bulbous base. A distinctive feature is the presence of a white volva at the base of the stipe.

Distribution and Habitat

Amanita bisporigera is found in deciduous and coniferous forests across North America, particularly in the eastern regions. It forms mycorrhizal associations with various trees, including oak, pine, and birch.

Toxicity

Amanita bisporigera contains potent amatoxins, primarily alpha-amanitin, which inhibit RNA polymerase II, leading to cell death. Ingestion of this mushroom can cause severe liver and kidney damage, often resulting in death if not treated promptly. Symptoms of poisoning typically appear 6 to 12 hours after ingestion and include abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea, followed by a false recovery period and then severe organ failure.

Similar Species

Amanita bisporigera is often confused with other white Amanita species, such as Amanita virosa and Amanita ocreata, which are also highly toxic. It is crucial to accurately identify these mushrooms to avoid potentially fatal poisoning.

Prevention and Treatment

Avoiding the consumption of wild mushrooms is the best prevention against poisoning. If ingestion occurs, immediate medical attention is necessary. Treatment may include gastric lavage, activated charcoal, and supportive care. In severe cases, a liver transplant may be required.

Related Pages

• Amanita
• Mycology
• Mushroom poisoning
• Amatoxin