Chloridoideae

Chloridoideae is a subfamily of grasses, belonging to the family Poaceae. This subfamily is one of the largest and most diverse within the grasses, with numerous genera and species found across various habitats worldwide. Chloridoideae grasses are characterized by several key features, including a specific type of photosynthesis known as C4 photosynthesis, which is an adaptation to warm and arid environments. This allows them to be highly efficient in hot, dry conditions, often outcompeting grasses that use C3 photosynthesis.

Morphologically, Chloridoideae grasses often exhibit distinct inflorescence structures, such as spikelets arranged in racemes or panicles. Many species have adaptations for drought tolerance, including rolled or narrow leaves to reduce water loss and extensive root systems. Some well-known genera within Chloridoideae include Chloris, Bouteloua, Eragrostis, and Sporobolus. These grasses play important ecological roles, serving as forage for livestock and wildlife, contributing to soil stabilization, and forming the basis of many grassland ecosystems. Their resilience to harsh conditions makes them significant components of rangelands and savannas.