panther mushrooms

The panther mushroom (Amanita pantherina) is considered a poisonous mushroom from the genus Amanita. It is widespread in Europe and grows primarily in deciduous and mixed forests, especially under oak, beech and spruce trees. The panther mushroom is easily confused with edible species, which makes it particularly dangerous.

Features:

• Cap: The cap of the panther mushroom is 5-12 cm wide, brown to dark brown in color and covered with numerous white to cream-colored warts that are easy to wipe off. The cap shape is initially hemispherical, later spreading.
• Gills: The gills are white, densely packed and free from the stalk.
• Stem: The stem is white, slender, with a conspicuous, hanging ring and a tuberous base surrounded by a ring-shaped sheath. This tuberous base is often crossed by what is known as a "zigzag pattern".
• Meat: The meat is white, brittle and has no distinct smell or taste.

Possible confusion: The panther mushroom is often confused with the edible pearl mushroom (Amanita rubescens), which, however, turns reddish when cut, which is not the case with the panther mushroom.

Note: The panther mushroom contains a high concentration of the substances muscarine and ibotenic acid, which can lead to severe poisoning if used for other purposes. Symptoms of poisoning usually appear 1-3 hours after consumption and include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, sweating, hallucinations and delirium. In severe cases, respiratory paralysis and even death can occur.

Medical significance: Despite its toxicity, ibotenic acid is used in traditional medicine in some cultures. However, the risk of poisoning if used improperly is extremely high, so consumption is strongly discouraged.

The panther mushroom is a striking example of how dangerous and fascinating the world of mushrooms can be. It is important to recognize and avoid it in order to avoid potentially life-threatening poisoning.