Many other grasses are grown as grain crops in various areas of the world. Various alcoholic beverages are derived by fermentation of malted grasses. Additionally, the grass family is the source of most of the animal protein for large segments of the Earth's population. Rangeland grasses, hay and grains are a principal source of food for domesticated animals. Wild animals from field mice to giant pandas and elephants depend on grasses for the large part of their diet.
Grasses are the dominant plants in various ecosystems.
There are many ornamental uses for grasses. Because of the durability of turf grasses and their ability to tolerate mowing, these grasses are grown for lawns, playing fields, golf courses, etc. Some grasses are used as accent plants in bedding. On the negative side, windborne grass pollen is a major cause of hay fever. Grasses that originated in the areas around the Mediterranean Sea have displaced much of the original herbaceous vegetation in California and other areas with a Mediterranean climate.