Grass pea

Grass Family (also known as Poaceae) is a large and nearly ubiquitous family of monocotyledonous flowering plants known as grasses. It includes some of the most economically and ecologically important plants on Earth.

Overview

The grass family is one of the most diverse plant families on the planet, with over 12,000 species spread across 771 genera. Members of this family are characterized by their long, slender leaves, hollow stems, and complex flower structures. They are found in nearly every habitat, from the arctic tundra to the tropical rainforests.

Economic Importance

Grasses are of significant economic importance. They form the basis of the diets of many animals, and are also the primary food source for a large portion of the world's human population. Major cereal crops such as wheat, rice, corn, oats, barley, rye, and sorghum are all members of the grass family. Grasses are also used in the production of sugar (from sugarcane), alcohol (from barley and corn), and biofuel (from corn and switchgrass).

Ecological Importance

In addition to their economic importance, grasses play a crucial role in the ecosystem. They help prevent soil erosion by holding the soil together with their extensive root systems. They also play a key role in the carbon cycle, as they absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere during photosynthesis and store it in their tissues.

Classification

The grass family is divided into 12 subfamilies, including the Pooideae (which includes wheat and barley), the Panicoideae (which includes corn and sugarcane), and the Bambusoideae (which includes bamboo).

See Also

• List of Poaceae genera
• Cereal
• Bamboo
• Sugarcane