Eragrostideae

Eragrostideae is a tribe within the grass subfamily Chloridoideae. This tribe is characterized by its spikelets, which are typically small and contain one to several florets. The glumes are usually unequal, and the lemmas are often awn-tipped, though this can vary. The caryopses, or fruits, are often a distinctive feature, with some species having grooved or channeled grains. Eragrostis is the largest and most well-known genus within the Eragrostideae, encompassing many widespread species found in grasslands, savannas, and disturbed areas across the globe. Other genera in the tribe include Distichlis, which includes salt-tolerant grasses, and various species adapted to arid and semi-arid environments. The distribution of Eragrostideae is cosmopolitan, with a significant presence in tropical and subtropical regions. Species within this tribe play important roles in their ecosystems, often serving as forage for wildlife and contributing to soil stabilization. Some species are also cultivated for their grain, such as Lovegrass (Eragrostis tef). The phylogenetic relationships within Eragrostideae are a subject of ongoing research, with molecular studies helping to refine the classification of its diverse genera.