Mushrooms that start with the letter A come in various shapes, sizes, and colors. Some of them are edible and delicious, while others are toxic and can cause serious harm to humans and animals.
Therefore, it is essential to know how to identify them correctly before consuming or handling them.
In the following sections, we will discuss 9 mushrooms that start with the letter A and their distinguishing features.
1.Agaricus
Agaricus is a genus of mushrooms that includes several edible and poisonous species. The most common edible species is Agaricus bisporus, also known as the white button mushroom.
It has a white cap, gills, and stem and is commonly found in grocery stores. Another edible species is Agaricus campestris, also known as the meadow mushroom. It has a brown cap and white gills and grows in fields and meadows.
2.Amanita
Amanita is a genus of mushrooms that contains some of the most deadly species. The most famous poisonous species is Amanita phalloides, also known as the death cap mushroom.
It has a greenish-brown cap, white gills, and a bulbous stem. It contains a potent toxin called amatoxin, which can cause liver and kidney failure and death if ingested. Therefore, it is essential to avoid this mushroom at all costs.
3.Armillaria
Armillaria is a genus of mushrooms that includes several species that can cause root rot in trees and shrubs. The most common species is Armillaria mellea, also known as the honey fungus.
It has a yellow-brown cap, white gills, and a ring on the stem. It grows in clusters at the base of trees and shrubs and can cause significant damage to their roots.
4.Auricularia
Auricularia is a genus of mushrooms that includes several species that are commonly used in Asian cuisine. The most famous species is Auricularia auricula-judae, also known as the wood ear mushroom.
It has a brownish-black cap, gelatinous texture, and grows on dead and decaying wood.
It is used in various dishes, such as soups, stir-fries, and salads, and is known for its crunchy texture and mild flavor.
5.Agrocybe
Agrocybe is a genus of mushrooms that includes several edible and poisonous species. The most common edible species is Agrocybe aegerita, also known as the black poplar mushroom.
It has a brown cap, white gills, and a stout stem and is commonly found in Europe and Asia. Another edible species is Agrocybe praecox, also known as the spring agaric.
It has a yellow-brown cap, pinkish-brown gills, and a slender stem and grows in grassy areas.
6.Albatrellus
Albatrellus is a genus of mushrooms that includes several species that are commonly found in North America and Europe. The most common species is Albatrellus ovinus, also known as the sheep polypore.
It has a brownish-red cap, white pores, and a thick stem and grows on the ground near trees. It is edible and is known for its nutty flavor.
7.Aleuria
Aleuria is a genus of mushrooms that includes several species that are commonly found in Europe and Asia. The most famous species is Aleuria aurantia, also known as the orange peel fungus.
It has a bright orange cup-shaped cap and grows on the ground in grassy areas. It is not edible and has a bitter taste.
8.Agaricus subrufescens
Agaricus subrufescens, also known as the almond mushroom, is an edible species that is commonly found in Brazil and Asia. It has a brownish-red cap, white gills, and a stout stem and is known for its almond-like flavor.
It is used in various dishes, such as soups, stews, and sauces.
9.Agaricus arvensis
Agaricus arvensis, also known as the horse mushroom, is an edible species that is commonly found in Europe and North America. It has a brown cap, white gills, and a stout stem and grows in fields and meadows.
It is known for its meaty texture and is used in various dishes, such as pies, stews, and soups.
Conclusion
In conclusion, mushrooms that start with the letter A come in various shapes, sizes, and colors. Some of them are edible and delicious, while others are toxic and can cause serious harm.
Therefore, it is essential to know how to identify them correctly before consuming or handling them.
The 9 mushrooms discussed in this article are Agaricus, Amanita, Armillaria, Auricularia, Agrocybe, Albatrellus, Aleuria, Agaricus subrufescens, and Agaricus arvensis.
Remember to exercise caution when foraging for mushrooms and always consult an expert before consuming them.
