Species of the genus Amanita include some of the most striking and beautiful fungi found in forests and downland. Often large in size and with bright colours they have long fascinated mycologists and non-mycologists alike. That some species are delicious edibles while others produce deadly toxins only adds to their glamour.
This KeyTo Amanita contains an interactive identification key to this genus, along with detailed descriptions and copious high-resolution photographs. The app is based on the successful book “The Genus Amanita in Britain” by expert mycologist, Geoffrey Kibby. It contains all the material from the latest book version of the key, plus additional photographs and the interactive key.
The app contains full descriptions of over 50 species, including some of the rarer ones which are not covered by most field guides. The information on each species includes a detailed physical description, host associates, chemical reactions and important microscopic details such as spore size. There are over 80 high resolution photos – zooming in will reveal all the detail.
Please note that this is a scientific key intended for enthusiastic field mycologists. Some microscopy work may be required for a complete identification.
Features
• full descriptions of more than 51 species in the genus Amanita, found in Great Britain or nearby
• over 80 photographs and illustrations
◦ zoom into high res photos to see exquisite detail
◦ further images will be added in future updates to this app
• many pages of material about the genus Amanita including its history, taxonomy and the physical development of the fruit bodies
◦ includes a further 20 photographs of key distinguishing features
• the latest taxonomic organisation of the genus, plus discussion on names and synonyms
• dichotomous key to all the species
◦ it is interactive to help avoid the common mistakes made when using keys
◦ alternatively, the key may be browsed like a book
◦ can save and reload your position in the key – use as a checkpoint feature or to record specimens you have fully identified
◦ easily reset your position to start again
• complete species list for easy access to descriptions
◦ can view the list taxonomically or alphabetically