Agarics are a group of fungi that belong to the family Agaricaceae. They are characterized by their umbrella-shaped caps and gills located underneath. Commonly found in forests and grasslands, these mushrooms play a vital role in ecosystems by decomposing organic matter and forming symbiotic relationships with plants. Many species of agarics are edible, while others can be toxic or hallucinogenic. The most well-known edible agaric is the button mushroom (Agaricus bisporus), widely used in cooking. Identification of agarics requires careful observation, as some look similar to poisonous varieties, making knowledge of their characteristics essential for foragers.