What is groundnut?

Groundnut (Peanut)

The groundnut, also known as the peanut, is a legume crop grown mainly for its edible seeds. It is widely grown in the tropics and subtropics and is important to both small and large commercial producers.

• Botanical Classification: The groundnut plant, Arachis hypogaea, belongs to the family Fabaceae (also known as Leguminosae).
• Origin and History: Believed to have originated in South America, groundnuts have been cultivated for thousands of years. They spread globally through trade and exploration.
• Plant Characteristics: It's an annual herbaceous plant that grows 30 to 50 cm (12 to 20 in) tall. A unique characteristic is the development of its pods underground, hence the name "groundnut."
• Cultivation: <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Groundnut%20cultivation">Groundnut cultivation</a> requires warm temperatures, well-drained sandy loam soils, and adequate moisture during the growing season. The planting season and cultivation practices vary depending on the region.
• Uses: Groundnuts are versatile and used in various forms:
  • Food: Eaten raw, roasted, boiled, or processed into peanut butter, oil, flour, and other products.
  • Oil: <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Groundnut%20oil">Groundnut oil</a> is a popular cooking oil.
  • Livestock Feed: Used as animal feed.
  • Industrial Uses: In the production of cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and other industrial products.
• Nutritional Value: Groundnuts are a good source of protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. They are calorie-dense.
• Economic Importance: Groundnuts are an important cash crop for farmers in many countries, especially in Africa and Asia.
• Major Producers: The leading groundnut producing countries include China, India, Nigeria, and the United States.
• Challenges: <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Groundnut%20diseases">Groundnut diseases</a> (e.g., leaf spot, rust, aflatoxin contamination) and pests can significantly reduce yields. Climate change also poses a threat to groundnut production.
• Varieties: Many <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Groundnut%20varieties">groundnut varieties</a> exist, each suited to specific growing conditions and end-use purposes.