Which trait is associated with glumes in the Eragrosteae tribe?

Glumes in the Eragrosteae tribe are indeed typically characterized by being short and not covering the entire spikelet. This trait is significant because it helps distinguish members of this tribe from other grasses where glumes might be more elongated or entirely enveloping the spikelet. The short glumes in Eragrosteae can also influence the visibility and accessibility of the florets within the spikelet, playing a role in the plant’s reproductive strategy.

Understanding this trait can also assist in identification processes, as the morphology of glumes can vary markedly across different grass tribes. In the case of Eragrosteae, their specific configuration provides key identification markers that help botanists and ecologists differentiate these species from others that might share similar habitats but belong to different tribe classifications.