How many species of sugar cane are there?

Sugarcane belongs to the grass family Poaceae, and it has numerous species and varieties. However, there are several primary types or species of sugarcane that are commercially cultivated around the world:

1. Saccharum officinarum (Noble Canes):

- This is the traditional and original species of sugarcane, believed to have originated from New Guinea. It is characterized by its thick stalks, high sugar content, and sweet flavor. Noble canes are generally used for chewing and have cultural and religious significance in many parts of the world.

2. Saccharum sinense (Chinese Canes):

- Chinese canes are native to Southeast Asia. They are known for their adaptability to diverse climatic conditions and resistance to pests and diseases. Chinese canes have relatively thinner stalks compared to noble canes and are primarily grown for commercial sugar production.

3. Saccharum barberi (Indian Canes):

- Indian canes originated from India and are known for their high sucrose content and disease resistance. They have medium-sized stalks and are commonly used for jaggery production and as chewing canes in some regions.

4. Saccharum spontaneum (Wild Canes):

- Wild canes are native to tropical regions of Asia, Africa, and Australia. They are considered the wild ancestor of sugarcane species and have significant genetic diversity. Wild canes are not typically cultivated commercially but serve as a valuable source of genes for breeding and improvement programs.

5. Intergeneric Hybrids:

- In addition to these primary species, there are also intergeneric hybrids of sugarcane. These hybrids are created by crossing sugarcane with related grass species, such as Erianthus or Miscanthus. Intergeneric hybrids can exhibit desirable traits like increased disease resistance, drought tolerance, or higher sugar content.

It's worth noting that within these species, there are numerous varieties and cultivars that have been developed through selective breeding and cultivation practices. These varieties are tailored to specific climatic conditions, pest and disease resistance, sugar yield, and other agronomic traits.