Amanita gemmata

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  Amanita gemmata
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  Amanita gemmata young
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  Amanita gemmata
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  Amanita gemmata

Amanita gemmata

Amanita gemmata, commonly known as the gemmed amanita or jonquil amanita, is a species of fungus in the Amanitaceae family. This basidiomycete fungus is notable for its distinctive appearance and its toxic properties.

Description

Amanita gemmata is characterized by its yellow to orange-yellow cap, which is typically 5 to 10 cm in diameter. The cap surface is smooth and often adorned with white, warty remnants of the universal veil. The gills are free, crowded, and white, while the stem is white to pale yellow, measuring 5 to 12 cm in height and 1 to 2 cm in thickness. The stem often features a fragile, skirt-like annulus.

The spore print of Amanita gemmata is white, and the spores are smooth, ellipsoid, and measure 8–10 by 6–7 µm. The volva at the base of the stem is usually not prominent.

Distribution and Habitat

Amanita gemmata is found in temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, including North America, Europe, and parts of Asia. It typically grows in coniferous and deciduous forests, often forming mycorrhizal associations with various tree species. The fruiting bodies appear from late spring to autumn.

Toxicity

Amanita gemmata contains ibotenic acid and muscimol, which are psychoactive compounds also found in the related species Amanita muscaria. Ingestion of this mushroom can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, confusion, hallucinations, and in severe cases, coma. Due to its toxic nature, Amanita gemmata should not be consumed.

Similar Species

Amanita gemmata can be confused with other yellow-capped species of Amanita, such as Amanita muscaria var. guessowii and Amanita pantherina. Careful examination of the cap color, presence of veil remnants, and habitat can aid in distinguishing these species.

Related pages

• Amanita muscaria
• Amanita pantherina
• Mycorrhiza
• Fungal toxins