Top 6 Most Common Toxic or Poisonous Mushrooms in Omaha
Descending into the rich flora of Omaha, the varied climate and unique terrain create a diverse ecosystem, producing a myriad of mushroom species. With mild summers and brisk winters, Omaha offers varied substrate for mycology enthusiasts. Yet, caution is advised especially for the top 6 most common poisonous mushrooms. To ensure a safe and enjoyable mushroom hunting adventure understanding these toxic varieties is paramount. Garner knowledge about these perilous gems lurking beneath Omaha's soil and cultivate a new understanding of its mystical fungal world.
* Disclaimer: Content feedback CAN NOT be used as any basis for EATING ANY PLANTS. Some plants can be VERY POISONOUS, please purchase edible plants through regular channels.
Most Common Toxic or Poisonous Mushrooms
1. False parasol
Though the false parasol appears unassuming, the species is famous—or, infamous—for its toxicity. It looks unfortunately similar to Agericus campestrus, a commonly eaten mushroom, but the false parasol can be distinguished by its highly unusual green spore print. Although they are no good to eat, they can be pretty to look at. The species may grow in ring-shaped groups in meadows and on forest floors in what are sometimes called "fairy circles."
2. Mower's mushroom
The mower's mushroom, also referred to as the lawnmower's mushroom, is so named because it frequently crops up in lawns. The species is rather nondescript, and it is considered a member of the infamously hard-to-distinguish "Little Brown Mushroom" (LBM) family. While the mower's mushroom is not known to be toxic to humans or dogs, several of these close look-alikes are.
3. Flowerpot parasol
This tropical/subtropical mushroom is known to be toxic. If eaten it causes a very unpleasant stomachache with the risk of fatal complications. In temperate zones, flowerpot parasol is only found in hothouses and greenhouses, so the risk of accidental foraging is low, but it may occur with potted plants and indoor landscaping and pose a risk to curious children.
4. Panaeolus antillarum
The panaeolus antillarum is a small, nondescript mushroom that, like other members of the Panaeolus genus, favors fruiting in animal dung, though it may also be found in wet meadows or even lawns. Though its stalk and cap don't offer any quick or easy identifying characteristics, one distinguishing feature of this species is its spore print, which is jet black.
5. Leucocoprinus cretaceus
Leucocoprinus cretaceus is a common mushroom of tropical and subtropical climates. Leucocoprinus cretaceus usually grows on manure, wood chips, and sawdust but it often pops out in planters and greenhouses.
6. Jack-o'lantern mushroom
The jack-o'lantern mushroom is so-called because of its bright orange color, and because it often appears in the fall (usually before Halloween, though). This vibrant little mushroom can be found growing on decaying hardwood stumps and logs. The species does have some superficial resemblances to the highly edible chanterelle (Cantharellus cibarius), but it is toxic and should be avoided!
