芡实是莲子吗

Qian shi (Euryale seed) is a nutrient-rich food that resembles lotus seed in appearance, but they differ significantly in composition, properties, and functions. Both qian shi and lotus seed belong to the plant kingdom, but they are from different families, genera, and species. Qian shi belongs to the genus Euryale, species Euryale ferox, while lotus seed belongs to the genus Nelumbo, species Nelumbo nucifera. Although qian shi looks similar to lotus seed, their shapes differ: qian shi is oval-shaped, whereas lotus seed is round. The skin of qian shi is thicker than that of lotus seed, with fine, elongated textures, while the skin of lotus seed is smoother in comparison.