UPSC » UPSC CSE Study Materials » Environment and Ecology » Poison Fire Coral

Poison Fire Coral

The article gives a brief introduction to the Poison fire coral. It discusses the definition of Poison fire coral, the harmful effects of Poison fire coral, and the list of deadliest fungus known.

Podostroma cornu-damae, commonly known as Poison fire coral, comes on the list of deadliest fungus in the world. 

It is a species of mushroom found in several parts of Asia. It has shown the most fatalities in Australia, Japan, and Korea. This fungus can grow very quickly, and its rapid multiplication can cause various harmful effects on both plants and humans. Because this fungus has been detected in Australia, people need to be aware of this potential danger to take the necessary precautions. This article will discuss the definition of poison fire coral and the harmful effects of Poison fire coral.  

List of Deadliest Fungus in the World

Death cap (Amanita phalloides)

  • Found throughout Europe

Conocybe filaris

  • Commonly found in the Pacific Northwest

Webcaps (Cortinarius species)

  • Native to Northern Europe

Autumn skullcap (Galerina marginata)

  • Found in Australia and the northern hemisphere

Destroying angels (Amanita species)

  • Found in North America

Poison fire coral (Podostroma cornu-damae)

  • Rare fungus native to Asia (shown fatalities in Japan and Korea mainly)

Deadly dapperling (brunneoincarnata)

  • Found in France and nearby regions

Definition of Poison Fire Coral

The poison fire coral belongs to the family Rutstroemia Ceae (Rutstroemia). This fungus is known to grow in Asia and Australia and has been classified as a group I quarantine pathogen.

It is best known for its ability to produce deadly toxins that can trigger cardiac arrest and lead to death in humans if contact occurs with skin or ingested.

While it’s a relative of Podostroma cornu-damae, poison fire coral is commonly called Podostroma cornu-damae. The fungi are closely related to Podostroma cornu-equini, but the two species can be distinguished by the fact that poison fire coral has a fat head on its cap.

Poison Fire coral is known as the “Fire Coral” because its deathly red colour resembles flames.

This fungus is typically found around decaying vegetation and mulch. It can also be found in wood chips and soil. Its main host plant is Gleichenia pulchra, a species of poison sumac. The fungus spreads by its own growth, with the spores travelling to new locations via the wind.

This fungus can grow very quickly, especially in moist environments. This means that if this fungus gets into your house or business, it could put out deadly chemicals as well as damage plants. Burning poison fire coral is not recommended since this will cause more harm than good.

Harmful Effects of Poison Fire Coral

While poison fire coral is a fungus, it can cause severe damage to humans. The following are the effects of poison fire coral:

Skin Tingling and Irritation: This is the most common effect people experience after coming into contact with this fungus. After coming into contact with the fungus, you may experience tingling and irritation of your skin.

Numbness: If you touch the fungus, it could also cause numbness in your skin. Once numb, you may have difficulty feeling or controlling your fingers.

If you are allergic to this fungus, you may also experience a rash or blisters on the area that came into contact with the fungus. This is an indication that the fungus was poisonous.

Headaches and Vertigo: If poison fire coral comes into contact with your nose, mouth, or eyes, it could cause headaches and even vertigo.

Brain damage and organ failure: This fungus can also cause brain damage and organ failure when ingested. In the worst cases, this fungus has killed people.

The Recommended Treatment

If you come into contact with poison fire coral, it’s important that you wash the area using cold water and soap gently. You should also wear gloves when gardening or handling mulch in case you accidentally come into contact with this fungus again.

After washing the area and wearing gloves, it’s recommended that you seek medical treatment immediately to avoid serious health problems as well as possible death. If you experience any unpleasant symptoms, you should seek medical treatment immediately. It’s also important that if you see signs of fungus in your area, you should contact your local authorities so they can take the appropriate measures to stop the spread of this fungus. Ignoring this could lead to serious health problems for not only yourself but for others in your community as well. In order to remove poison fire coral from your home or business, it’s important that you contact a professional removal service such as pest control.

Conclusion

Poison Fire Coral is not only dangerous for the plants and animals it affects but also for humans who come into contact with it. You do not have to be in imminent danger to experience the symptoms of this fungal infection since it can grow rapidly. Be wary of the fungus and strive to prevent further spread by taking precautions such as keeping all plants watered regularly and removing dead plant material from your yard regularly. Knowing the harmful effects and the definition of Poison fire coral can help you protect yourself and your family from this potential problem.

faq

Frequently asked questions

Get answers to the most common queries related to the UPSC Examination Preparation.

What are the types of Poison Fire Coral that can be found?

Ans : Poison Fire Coral has different types and sizes depending on where it is found. In Australia,...Read full

Give a brief definition of Poison fire coral? What are the harmful effects of Poison Fire Coral?

Ans : Poison Fire Coral is a rare fungus that grows on the decaying tissues of plants and animals a...Read full

What control methods can be used to prevent Poison Fire Coral from spreading?

Ans : To control Poison Fire Coral from spreading, you need to remove fallen plant material, which ...Read full

Is it true that burning Poison fire coral will eliminate the problem?

Ans : This is not true since the burning of coral will not eliminate the problem, but it will only ...Read full