Crop plants that belong to the grass family (Gramineae), generally grown for their edible starchy seeds. They also are referred to as cereal crops and include wheat, rice, maize (corn), barley, rye, oats, sorghum (jowar), and millet. The grain of all these is used directly for human food and also for livestock, especially maize, barley, oats, and sorghum.
An important attribute of these grain crops is the easy manner in which they can be stored. The grain often dries naturally before harvest to a safe moisture content (10–12%), or can easily be dried with modern equipment. Grain placed in adequate storage facilities can then be protected against insect infestations and maintained in sound condition for years. See also Corn; Millet; Oats; Rice; Sorghum; Wheat.
