Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question asks for the commercially most prevalent variety of maize (corn) produced globally.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
• Dent Maize (Zea mays indentata): This is the most widely grown type of corn in the world, especially in the US "Corn Belt." It is characterized by a small indentation or "dent" at the top of the kernel. This dent forms as the soft starch in the center of the kernel dries and shrinks faster than the hard starch on the sides.
• Uses: It is the primary corn used for livestock feed, industrial products (ethanol, corn syrup, starch), and processed foods (corn chips, tortillas).
• Other Types:
• Flint Maize: Has a hard outer shell and is common in South America and parts of Europe; used for cornmeal and polenta.
• Floury Maize: Contains mostly soft starch; easy to grind into flour, common in the Andean regions.
• Popcorn: A specialized flint type with a very thick hull that allows it to "pop" when heated.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Dent corn is the dominant industrial and agricultural variety grown globally.