Final answer:
Some species of Coprinus mushrooms are edible, like the shaggy mane, while others may be poisonous. The common supermarket mushroom, Agaricus bisporus, is safely edible. Always exercise caution when foraging for wild mushrooms, as mistaken identification can be fatal.
Step-by-step explanation:
Coprinus is a genus of mushrooms that includes both edible and inedible species. It is essential to identify mushrooms accurately before consumption, as many edible fungi have poisonous look-alikes. Notably, the species Coprinus comatus, commonly known as the shaggy mane, is edible. However, there are other species within the Coprinus genus that may not be safe to eat.
The most commonly consumed mushroom is Agaricus bisporus, which includes varieties such as button, portobello, and crimini mushrooms. These are cultivated in controlled environments to ensure safety and quality. Keep in mind that wild mushroom foraging requires expertise due to the risk of poisonous mushrooms, such as the deadly Amanita phalloides, also known as the death-cap mushroom. It is wise to follow the adage: "there are bold mushroom pickers and old mushroom pickers, but there are no old, bold mushroom pickers." Always err on the side of caution and consult a professional if you are unsure.