Bamboo species belong to the family Poaceae, which includes grasses. There are over 1,400 species of bamboo, categorized into two main types: clumping and running. Clumping bamboos grow in tight clusters, while running bamboos spread through underground rhizomes. Bamboo is known for its rapid growth, with some species capable of growing up to 91 cm (35 inches) in a single day. It is found in diverse climates, from tropical to temperate regions, and plays a crucial role in ecosystems by providing habitat and food for various animals, including pandas.