Destroying angel

Amanita bisporigera

A species of Amanita mushrooms. Also known as Eastern north american destroying angel.

True to its name, the destroying angel is a stunning yet lethally toxic mushroom, widely recognized for its potent poison. Even a minuscule, pea-sized ingestion is enough to induce kidney failure, liver failure, and ultimately, death. This species accounts for a significant portion of mushroom-related fatalities. Its deceptive appearance often leads to it being confused with several popular edible varieties, such as button mushrooms, by those unfamiliar with its distinct characteristics.

Attributes of Destroying angel

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Cap Diameter
3 - 11 cm
Height
6 - 15 cm
Cap
2.5 - 10 cm; oval; stark white to ivory; bald, dry
Cap Shape
Convex, Bell-shaped, Flat
Cap Surfaces
Smooth, Slimy or slightly sticky
Gills
Free; close or crowded; white
Gill Attachment
Free
Stem
6 - 14 cm long, 5 - 20 mm thick; tapering somewhat to apex; white
Stem Shapes
With Cup
Stem Surfaces
Smooth to slightly fibrous
Flesh
White throughout
Volva
Sacklike; white
Ring
With Ring
Spore Print Color
White
Odor
Initially mild, becomes foul with age.
Body Color
YellowWhitePinkCream
Flesh Bruises
The flesh or milk does not discolor when bruised or cut.
Growth Form
Solitary, Gregarious
Nutrient Gathering
Mycorrhizal
Substrate
On soil
You can find Destroying angel by these plants
Pitch pine
Occurence Habitats
Deciduous Woodland
Species Status
Common in eastern North America.
Endangered Species
No

Scientific Classification of Destroying angel

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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 Destroying angel

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Is Destroying angel Toxic?

The highly toxic Destroying Angel mushroom, frequently encountered in mixed woodlands from summer through early autumn, poses a significant health risk upon human ingestion. Initial symptoms typically involve abdominal cramps, nausea, and dizziness. However, as the poisoning progresses, more severe health issues such as liver damage and heart failure can manifest. This fungus is recognizable by its white cap and stalk, in addition to a volva present at its base.

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 Destroying angel Toxic to Dogs?

Destroying angel 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.