Cortinarius rubellus

Cortinarius rubellus

Cortinarius rubellus

Cortinarius rubellus, commonly known as the deadly webcap, is a species of fungus in the family Cortinariaceae. It is known for its highly toxic properties, which can cause severe kidney damage if ingested. This species is found in coniferous forests across Europe and parts of North America.

Description

The fruiting body of Cortinarius rubellus is characterized by its distinctive reddish-brown cap, which can range from 3 to 8 cm in diameter. The cap is initially conical, becoming more convex with age. The surface is dry and fibrous, often with a slight sheen.

The gills are adnate to adnexed, starting out pale yellow and becoming rusty brown as the spores mature. The stipe is cylindrical, measuring 5 to 12 cm in height and 0.5 to 1.5 cm in thickness, with a bulbous base. It is typically the same color as the cap or slightly paler.

Toxicity

Cortinarius rubellus contains orellanine, a potent nephrotoxin that can cause renal failure if ingested. Symptoms of poisoning may not appear until 2 to 3 days after consumption, making it particularly dangerous. Initial symptoms include nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, followed by thirst, headache, and muscle pain. Without treatment, the condition can progress to kidney failure, which may be fatal.

Habitat and Distribution

This species is typically found in coniferous and mixed forests, often in association with pine and spruce trees. It prefers acidic soils and is most commonly encountered in the autumn months. Cortinarius rubellus is distributed throughout Europe, with notable populations in Scandinavia, the United Kingdom, and parts of North America.

Similar Species

Cortinarius rubellus can be confused with other members of the Cortinarius genus, such as Cortinarius orellanus, which is also highly toxic. Both species share similar morphological features, but Cortinarius orellanus typically has a more orange hue and lacks the fibrous cap texture of Cortinarius rubellus.

Related Pages

• Cortinarius orellanus
• Mushroom poisoning
• Nephrotoxicity
• Fungal biology