Oats are members of the grass family Poaceae, specifically the subfamily Pooideae. This subfamily contains several important cereal crops such as wheat, barley, rye, oats, and other lawn and pasture grasses. Oats are commonly cultivated for their seeds, which are used as food for humans and livestock and for various industrial purposes. They thrive in cool temperate climates and are valued for their nutritional content and versatility in cooking.