Amanita (family Amanitaceae) A genus of fungi which includes some of the most poisonous known (e.g. Amanita phalloides, see DEATH CAP; Amanita virosa, see DESTROYING ANGEL). A few species are edible. The fruit bodies are mushroom-shaped with white gills. Typically a volva is present, and remnants of the universal veil may adhere to the surface of the pileus. Some species form mycorrhizal association with higher plants. See also BLUSHER; CAESAR's MUSHROOM; FALSE DEATH CAP; FLY AGRARIC; GRISETTE; and PANTHER CAP.

amanita Large, widely distributed genus of fungi. Amanitas usually have distinct stalks and the prominent remains of a veil in a fleshy ring under the cap and at the bulbous base. They include some of the most poisonous fungi known, such as the death cap and destroying angel.