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The Guardian - AU
The Guardian - AU
National
Caitlin Cassidy

Surge in death cap mushrooms in NSW and SA as scientists warn some deadly fungi look like supermarket varieties

Person wearing blue gloves holds poisonous death cap mushrooms
Originating in Europe, death cap mushrooms were first confirmed to be in Australia in the 1960s, initially in Canberra and then Melbourne in the 1970s. It is estimated half a death cap can kill an adult. Photograph: Joel Carrett/AAP

New South Wales and South Australia residents have been warned to stay away from wild mushrooms after a surge in the detection of highly poisonous death caps, including in Sydney.

Amanita phalloides, commonly known as death cap mushrooms, have been found growing in Sydney, the southern highlands, southern NSW and the Adelaide hills after high rainfall, health officials say. They warn that children are particularly at risk.

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