kaksirivisiä

Kaksirivisiä refers to a Finnish term that literally translates to "two-rowed." It is most commonly used in the context of barley cultivation. Two-rowed barley is a specific variety of barley (Hordeum vulgare) characterized by its grain heads, which have two rows of fertile florets. This is in contrast to six-rowed barley, which has six rows of florets.

The distinction between two-rowed and six-rowed barley is primarily based on the morphology of the ear. In two-rowed varieties, only the central florets on each side of the rachis (the main stem of the ear) develop into grains, resulting in the two distinct rows. This typically leads to a more uniform grain size and composition.

Historically and in modern agriculture, two-rowed barley has been favored for certain uses, particularly in malting for beer production. Its lower protein content and consistent starch profile are desirable for malting. While both types of barley are grown for feed and food, the specific characteristics of two-rowed barley have made it a staple for the brewing industry in many regions.