Agaricaceae

The Agaricaceae is a family of fungi in the order Agaricales. Members are typically agaricoid mushrooms with a cap (pileus), a stalk (stipe), and gills (lamellae) bearing basidiospores. The group shows diversity in size, color, and habitat, but most form fleshy fruit bodies with a veil that may leave a ring on the stalk or a volva at the base.

Ecology and distribution: Most species are saprotrophic, breaking down leaf litter, manure, and decaying wood. They are globally distributed and common in forests, grasslands, and urban areas.

Genera and notable species: The family includes Agaricus (including the cultivated button mushroom, A. bisporus), Lepiota, Leucoagaricus, Macrolepiota, Chlorophyllum, and related genera. Spore colors range from white to brown, depending on genus. Edible species include Agaricus bisporus and Macrolepiota procera; Leucoagaricus leucothites is also eaten in some regions. Poisonous members are present, notably Chlorophyllum molybdites and several Lepiota species, which can cause severe illness. Misidentification with edible species is a recognized risk.

Taxonomy and notes: Molecular studies have refined its circumscription, and some genera formerly placed here have been reassigned to other families. The Agaricaceae remains a core lineage within the Agaricales and includes many species of ecological and economic importance.