In terms of identification, what characteristic on the lemma can be useful?

The number of nerves on the lemma is a crucial characteristic for identification because it can help distinguish between different species of grasses or related plants. In botany, the lemma is a part of the grass flower structure, specifically the bracts that cover the flower. Each species can have a distinct pattern regarding how many nerves are present, which can range in number and alignment.

The nerve pattern can be used in combination with other morphological traits to provide a more comprehensive understanding of a plant's identity. For example, the number of nerves may correlate with specific adaptations to environmental conditions, which can be critical for distinguishing species within complex ecosystems. This morphological detail is often used in taxonomic keys, allowing botanists and ecologists to accurately classify species based on observable features.