Leongatha mushroom murders

High school (ages 12+)
Human Body

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/2023-leongatha-mushroom-poisoning

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the scientific name of mushroom?Amanita phalloides
2. What is the primary toxin?Amatoxins, which cause severe liver and kidney damage
3. What is the death cap mushroom and why is it dangerous?The death cap mushroom, called Amanita phalloides, has toxins called amatoxins that stay strong even after cooking. These toxins hurt the liver and can cause serious illness or death.
4. How can you tell if a mushroom is poisonous?The death cap looks like some edible mushrooms, so it can be hard to spot. It usually grows near oak trees in woodlands or gardens.

Hepatocellular Necrosis: The death of liver cells caused by toxins or injury.
Forensic Mycology: The study of fungi in relation to legal matters and criminal investigations.
Amatoxins: A group of highly toxic cyclic peptides found in death cap mushrooms.
Non-Parole Period: The minimum amount of time a convicted person must serve in prison before being eligible for parole.