Rice (Oryza sativa) is a globally significant staple grass, providing over 20% of the daily calorie intake for more than half the world's population. Primarily cultivated in flooded fields, it is a versatile cereal grain consumed white, brown, or in various forms (noodles, flour). It is rich in carbohydrates and is a major source of energy, particularly in Asia, where 90% of the world's crop is grown.