Ecological factors affecting the distribution of the Amanita genus (poisonous mushrooms) in the Central Highlands, Vietnam

Abstract

The Amanita genus, a member of the Amanitaceae family, thrives in Vietnam’s Central Highlands and exhibits remarkable diversity and abundance. These Amanita fungi species predominantly inhabit pine forests, mixed forests, and grassy areas. Because most species in this genus are toxic, the impact of ecological factors on their emergence and development must be understood. This study aims to build the correlation between ecological factors, namely light, humidity, altitude, temperature, and habitat. Our findings reveal that fungi within this genus primarily inhabit higher-altitude zones (ranging from 500 to 800 m). Their optimal growth temperature lies between 19 and 22 °C, with a light intensity of 800-1000 lux and relatively high humidity levels, ranging from 85% to 90%. These factors significantly influence the frequency of these fungi’s occurrence. These insights serve as a foundation for identifying the distribution area of these toxic mushrooms and improving their recognition. This research enhances our understanding of Amanita biodiversity in this region and provides valuable insights into the specific environmental conditions that support their growth and conservation.