Question

Give an example of the non-edible or poisonous mushroom, studied by you.

Answer 1

Hint: Most of the species on this genus are non-edible. This genus of poisonous mushrooms has amatoxins, phallotoxins, and virotoxins that exert the highest toxicity, mainly involving the liver, kidneys, and central nervous system. This genus belongs to the basidiomycetes class of fungus.

Complete step by step answer:
- This genus is none other than Amanita and has many poisonous or non-edible species, for example, Amanita verna, Amanita phalloides, Amanita virosa.
- Amanita phalloides, known as ‘death cap’, is one of the most poisonous mushrooms.
- Amanita phalloides typically has features like white gills and spores, a ring of tissue (annulus) near the top of the stalk, and a volva at the base.
- Amanita phalloides is the reason for the majority of human fatal cases of mushroom poisoning worldwide.
- Amanitin is the major toxin produced by this mushroom.

Additional information:
- Amanitin inhibits RNA polymerase II, causing cessation of the translation process and ultimately cell death.
- The liver is the main target organ of toxicity along with kidneys.
- Intoxication symptoms appear after the latent period that includes gastrointestinal disorders, jaundice, seizures, coma, and finally death.
- Amanita species are also present as ectomycorrhizal fungus, forming obligate symbiotic relationships with the roots of trees that are nonnative, broad- leaf trees.
- Amanita phalloides typically grow from June to November.

Note:
- Death caps generally are easily misidentified as an edible variety of mushrooms by people who don't have experience and knowledge in the identification of mushrooms.
- Species of the genus Amanita is reported to be brightly colored, attractive, and to taste pleasant. One should be beware of attractive and beautiful mushrooms.