During a recent field collection in the forests of Chitlang (Nepal), our lab accidentally discovered that a local Amanita species appeared to have insecticidal effects. Several flies that came into contact with or fed on the mushroom were found dead within a few hours. No external chemicals or traps were involved, and this pattern was consistent throughout the day.
We are now investigating the bioactive compounds possibly responsible for this effect.
I would appreciate insights from anyone who has:
Are there known records of such behavior in wild Amanita mushrooms? Could this be a common trait or an undocumented property of certain regional strains?
Looking forward to your thoughts, references, or similar observations.