Amanita virosa

Amanita virosa, commonly known as the European destroying angel, is a highly poisonous mushroom belonging to the genus Amanita. Native to Europe, this fungus is primarily found in coniferous and deciduous forests. It is closely related to other deadly mushrooms in the Amanita genus, such as Amanita phalloides (the death cap) and Amanita ocreata (the western destroying angel), sharing many of the same toxic compounds that make ingestion potentially fatal.

Description

Amanita virosa is characterized by its pure white cap, which can reach up to 10 cm in diameter. The cap is initially egg-shaped before spreading out to a flat or slightly convex shape with age. The gills are free, crowded, and also white, as is the spore print. The stalk measures 8 to 15 cm in height and 1 to 2 cm in diameter, with a bulbous base. It features a prominent white ring (annulus) and the base is surrounded by a white, sack-like volva. The flesh of the mushroom is white, with no distinctive smell, although some describe it as slightly unpleasant.

Distribution and Habitat

Amanita virosa is found in various parts of Europe, from the north in Scandinavia to the south in Italy and Spain. It grows solitary or in groups in broad-leaved and coniferous forests, preferring moist, acidic soil. It is a mycorrhizal fungus, forming symbiotic associations with the roots of living trees, which makes it difficult to cultivate for study or commercial purposes.

Toxicity

The toxicity of Amanita virosa is due to the presence of amatoxins, particularly α-amanitin. These toxins inhibit RNA polymerase II, a crucial enzyme in the synthesis of mRNA, leading to cellular dysfunction and organ failure. The liver and kidneys are particularly affected. Symptoms of poisoning can appear 6 to 24 hours after ingestion and include severe abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, liver and renal failure, leading to death. There is no known antidote for amatoxin poisoning, and treatment is supportive, focusing on managing symptoms and preventing organ damage.

Prevention

The best way to prevent poisoning by Amanita virosa is to avoid consuming wild mushrooms without thorough knowledge and identification. Mushroom foragers are advised to seek expert guidance and to adhere to the principle of erring on the side of caution, especially when dealing with mushrooms that resemble edible species.

See Also

• Mushroom poisoning
• Mycology
• Amanita