
Oryza sativa
Oryza sativa is the scientific name for the common rice plant, a staple food for over half the world’s population. It’s a cereal grain that grows in flooded fields called paddies, producing edible seeds known as rice grains. These grains are harvested, processed, and cooked into various dishes worldwide. Oryza sativa has numerous varieties and is cultivated in diverse climates, making it a crucial crop for global food security. Its importance extends beyond nutrition, supporting economies and cultures across Asia, Africa, and the Americas.