How does climate types found in East Africa influence what grows there?
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All plants have specific needs as to moisture, temperature range, and length of the growing season.
This map shows the climates of east Africa.
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In order to understand how climate types in East Africa influence what grows there, we need to consider the main factors that determine climate and their impact on vegetation. These factors include temperature, precipitation, and the length of the growing season.
1. Temperature: Different crops have specific temperature ranges within which they can grow. A warm climate is generally more suitable for tropical crops like bananas, mangoes, and coconuts, which thrive in temperatures above 20 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Fahrenheit). On the other hand, cooler climates favor crops such as wheat, potatoes, and barley.
2. Precipitation: The amount and distribution of rainfall play a crucial role in determining the vegetation in a particular area. In East Africa, the climate is heavily influenced by the Indian Ocean and the movements of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), resulting in distinct wet and dry seasons in different regions. Areas with higher precipitation, such as the coastal regions and the highlands, support a wider range of crops including coffee, tea, maize (corn), and sugarcane. In drier regions, crops like millet, sorghum, and drought-resistant vegetables are commonly grown due to their ability to survive with lower water availability.
3. Growing Season: The length of the growing season, which refers to the period in which temperatures are warm enough for plants to grow, also affects the types of crops that can be cultivated. In areas with a short growing season, like some highland regions, crops with shorter maturation periods like barley and potatoes are more feasible. Meanwhile, regions with longer growing seasons, such as the low-lying areas near the equator, can support multiple crops with longer maturation periods.
It is important to note that climate type alone is not the only factor influencing what grows in a specific region. Soil fertility, access to water resources, market demand, and human interventions, such as irrigation or land management practices, also play significant roles in determining the agricultural patterns in East Africa.