Amanita citrina - Мухомор поганковидный - False Death Cap

Amanita citrina - Мухомор поганковидный - False Death Cap - Gelber Knollenblätterpilz 9/22/12—9/13/24

Amanita citrina, commonly known as the False Death Cap, is a basidiomycete fungus belonging to the Amanita genus. It is characterized by a pale yellow to greenish-yellow cap with white warts, which can reach up to 12 cm in diameter. The white stem, which may grow up to 15 cm tall, features a distinct ring and a bulbous base with a membranous, sack-like volva. Advanced scientific research has shown that Amanita citrina contains trace amounts of the psychoactive compounds ibotenic acid and muscimol, as well as the toxin bufotenine, which can cause mild toxic effects when ingested in large quantities. However, it is generally considered to be less toxic than other Amanita species, such as Amanita pantherina and Amanita muscaria. The False Death Cap is widely distributed across Europe, including parts of Russia, where it is known as Мухомор поганковидный. It forms ectomycorrhizal relationships with various tree species, particularly deciduous trees like oaks, beeches, and birches, and is typically encountered during late summer and autumn. Amanita citrina produces white, elliptical spores that measure approximately 8-10 µm by 6-7 µm. The spore print is also white, making it a key characteristic for identification. An estimated 1-2 million spores are produced per fruiting body, which are dispersed by wind and rain. Although Amanita citrina is not as toxic as some other Amanita species, it is still important to exercise caution when foraging, as the False Death Cap can be easily confused with the deadly Amanita phalloides, also known as the Death Cap. Ingestion of Amanita citrina may lead to mild gastrointestinal symptoms and, in rare cases, neurological effects such as confusion and drowsiness. In German, this fungus is known as Gelber Knollenblätterpilz, which translates to "yellow tuber gill fungus," a name that reflects its characteristic color and its close relationship with the Amanita genus.