A group of cyclists near Margaret River, Western Australia, recently discovered a striking cluster of bright red and white mushrooms that looked like a scene from a fairytale. The mushrooms, known as Amanita muscaria or fly agaric, are an invasive and toxic species spreading through parts of Australia.
Sean Blocksidge and his friends came across the large fungi while cycling through dense pine forests south of Perth. Surprised by their size — nearly double that of previous years — Sean photographed his size 14 foot next to the mushrooms to show their impressive scale. However, despite their magical appearance, these mushrooms pose a risk to people, pets, and native ecosystems.
Amanita muscaria is believed to have arrived in Australia in the early 20th century, likely introduced through the roots of pine plants. It is now found in pine plantations, gardens, and parks across the east coast, Tasmania, South Australia, and parts of southwest Western Australia. Although known for some time, its presence in WA has only been recently confirmed, with reports increasing since 2012.
Sean explained the species has become more noticeable this year, especially following wet winter conditions. “This year is the most prolific and biggest size I’ve ever seen them,” he said, noting the mushrooms have appeared widely in regions around Margaret River, Busselton, Pemberton, and Nannup.
Experts warn that Amanita muscaria can displace native fungi and disrupt local ecosystems. Dr Carol Booth of the Invasive Species Council said the mushroom forms beneficial relationships with exotic trees like pines but has also spread to native trees such as southern beech and possibly eucalypts. This could threaten native fungi and alter nutrient availability for native plants.
Professor Brett Summerell from the Botanic Gardens of Sydney described the species as a “weed mushroom” and noted it can grow up to 30cm in diameter, especially in wet years. The fly agaric gets its name from its traditional use to attract and kill flies by placing parts of the mushroom in milk.
While Amanita muscaria is toxic and can cause health risks, it is generally not deadly. Some people have used it for psychoactive purposes, but experts caution against this due to its dangers. The mushroom is well-known culturally and appears as one of the mushroom emojis on many smartphones.
People are advised to admire these mushrooms from a safe distance and avoid ingestion.
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