Death cap

Amanita phalloides

A species of Amanita mushrooms.

The death cap mushroom accounts for the majority of global mushroom poisoning deaths. Its potent toxins inflict severe damage on the liver and kidneys, necessitating urgent medical attention within a few hours of consumption. This fungus closely resembles various other mushroom species at different growth stages and has been a tool in assassinations dating back to ancient Greece.

Attributes of Death cap

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Cap Diameter
4 - 16 cm
Height
8 - 20 cm
Cap
Cap 4 - 16 cm across; pale olive to yellowish, silvery gray, whitish; surface smooth, with patches of veil remains
Cap Shape
Convex, Flat, Depressed
Cap Surfaces
Smooth, Slimy or slightly sticky
Gills
Free; close, crowded; white
Gill Attachment
Free
Stem
Stem 5 - 18 cm long, 1 - 2.5 cm thick; white; with fine zigzag markings
Stem Shapes
With Cup
Stem Surfaces
Smooth
Flesh
White; unchanging when sliced
Volva
Swollen base of the stem; sack-like; white
Ring
With Ring
Spore Print Color
White
Odor
Mild when young, unpleasantly sweet when older.
Body Color
BrownGreenYellowWhite
Flesh Bruises
The flesh or milk does not discolor when bruised or cut.
Growth Form
Solitary, Scattered, Gregarious
Nutrient Gathering
Mycorrhizal
Substrate
On soil
You can find Death cap by these plants
Coast live oak, Bishop pine, Oaks, European beech
Occurence Habitats
Deciduous Woodland, Mixed Woodland
Species Status
Widespread
Endangered Species
No

Scientific Classification of Death cap

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Phylum
Club fungi
Class
Mushroom-forming fungi
Order
Gilled fungi
Family
Amanita
Genus
Amanita mushrooms
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Toxicity and Edibility of Death cap

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Is Death cap Toxic?

You can often encounter the Death cap mushroom in both broadleaf and needle-leaf forests during temperate periods. Its toxic compounds can initially trigger symptoms such as sickness, fatigue, and stomach pains, potentially progressing to issues with blood circulation. In advanced stages, it can cause significant harm to the liver and heart. Its identifiable white gills and a cap with a greenish tint assist in distinguishing the Death cap from edible types.

Toxins type
Amatoxins, Phallotoxins, Virotoxins
Type of poisoning
Hepatotoxic
Toxic Severity
Extreme toxicity
Incubation Period
4-24 hours
Poisoning Symptoms
Early symptoms: abdominal cramps, nausea, weakness, vomiting, and dizziness, with potential for circulatory failure. Later stages: calf and abdominal cramps, hepatitis, heart failure, bloody diarrhea, and liver damage.

Is Death cap Toxic to Dogs?

Death cap can be dangerous to dogs. If your pet has consumed this mushroom, seek immediate veterinary attention. Symptoms may vary, but early intervention is crucial for the best outcome.