What is wheat? Importance of wheat in agriculture and nutrition

Пшеница на английском языке называется "wheat". Вот подробное описание пшеницы на английском:

Wheat is a cereal grain that belongs to the genus Triticum, widely cultivated for its seeds which serve as a staple food source for humans and livestock. It is one of the most important crops globally, serving as a primary source of carbohydrates and nutrients in many diets.

The wheat plant typically grows to a height of around 2 to 4 feet, although this can vary depending on the variety and growing conditions. It features long, slender leaves and produces a cluster of small flowers at the top of its stalk, which eventually develop into grains.

Wheat grains are small, oval-shaped seeds encased in tough outer husks. These grains come in different colors, including red, white, and amber, depending on the variety. The most commonly cultivated species of wheat are Triticum aestivum (common wheat), Triticum durum (durum wheat), and Triticum dicoccum (emmer wheat).

Wheat is typically grown in temperate regions around the world, although it can also be cultivated in some subtropical areas. It requires well-drained soil and moderate temperatures for optimal growth. Wheat is typically sown in the fall or spring, depending on the variety and climate, and harvested in the summer.

The cultivation of wheat involves several stages, including land preparation, planting, fertilization, irrigation (if necessary), and pest control. Once the wheat plants reach maturity, they are harvested using specialized machinery such as combine harvesters.

After harvesting, the wheat grains undergo processing to remove the outer husks and prepare them for consumption. This process, known as milling, produces various products such as flour, semolina, and bran, which are used in a wide range of food products, including bread, pasta, cereals, and baked goods.

Wheat is not only a vital food source but also plays a significant role in the global economy and trade. Countries such as the United States, China, India, Russia, and Canada are among the largest producers of wheat worldwide. It is a commodity that is traded extensively on commodity exchanges, influencing prices and supply chains around the world.

In addition to its culinary uses, wheat straw, the dried stalks left over after harvesting, has various industrial applications, including animal bedding, thatching, and as a raw material for paper production.

Overall, wheat is a versatile and essential crop with a long history of cultivation dating back thousands of years. Its widespread availability and nutritional value make it a fundamental component of the human diet and agricultural industry globally.