The family Geastraceae, in the order Geastrales, comprises a group of fungi commonly known as earthstars. These fungi are characterized by their unique star-like fruiting bodies, which form when the outer layer of the fruiting body splits open to reveal a central spore sac. Earthstars are typically saprotrophic, feeding on decaying organic matter in forest floors and other terrestrial habitats. They are widely distributed around the world, and their distinctive morphology makes them easily recognizable compared to other fungi. Many species in this family play an important ecological role by recycling nutrients in the ecosystems where they occur.