Cortinarius orellanus

Cortinarius orellanus, commonly known as the Fool's Webcap, is a highly toxic mushroom belonging to the large genus Cortinarius. This species is found predominantly in Europe and is part of the subgroup of mushrooms known as webcaps due to the web-like partial veil, or cortina, that connects the cap to the stem in young specimens. The consumption of Cortinarius orellanus can lead to severe kidney damage due to its content of orellanine, a potent nephrotoxin.

Description

Cortinarius orellanus features a cap that ranges from 3 to 10 cm in diameter, initially convex before flattening out with age, often with a slight central depression. The cap's color can vary from orange to reddish-brown. The gills are initially pale before turning a rusty brown as the spores mature. The stem is similar in color to the cap, measuring 4 to 10 cm in height and 1 to 2 cm in diameter, often with a bulbous base. The presence of a cortina, a spiderweb-like veil, is a distinctive feature in young specimens but often disappears with age.

Distribution and Habitat

Cortinarius orellanus is primarily found in deciduous and mixed forests across Europe, forming mycorrhizal associations with a variety of trees, including oaks, beeches, and pines. It fruits from late summer to autumn, often hidden among leaf litter, making it easy to overlook.

Toxicity

The primary toxic compound in Cortinarius orellanus is orellanine, which causes delayed symptoms of toxicity, typically appearing 2 to 3 days after ingestion. Initial symptoms include flu-like feelings, such as nausea, vomiting, and headaches, progressing to severe kidney damage and potentially leading to kidney failure if left untreated. There is no specific antidote for orellanine poisoning, and treatment is supportive, focusing on maintaining hydration and renal function.

Prevention

The best prevention against poisoning by Cortinarius orellanus is education and caution when foraging for mushrooms. Mushroom foragers should be familiar with this species and avoid consuming any mushrooms that have not been positively identified by an expert.

See Also

• Mushroom poisoning
• Mycorrhiza
• Nephrotoxin

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