Previous Year Question
In which of the following regions of the world, the production of citrus fruits is well developed?
Monsoon regions
Tropical high lands regions
Mediterranean regions
Equatorial regions
Correct Answer: C
Detailed Solution
Mediterranean climatic regions are characterised by highly developed fruit cultivation and orchard farming. In particular, oranges, lemons and other citrus fruits are important agricultural products of this region.
The principal feature of the Mediterranean climate is hot and dry summers with mild and rainy winters. This climatic pattern provides favourable conditions for citrus fruits as well as crops such as grapes, figs, olives and pomegranates.
Mediterranean-type agriculture is not confined only to the lands surrounding the Mediterranean Sea. Similar climatic conditions also occur in California, Central Chile, the South-Western Cape region and South-Western Australia, where horticulture and fruit cultivation are important.
Adequate sunlight, comparatively mild winters and controlled moisture are important for citrus crops. Irrigation is also widely used in Mediterranean agriculture wherever required.
For examination purposes, remember—Mediterranean Climate → Hot Dry Summer + Mild Wet Winter → Orchard Farming → Citrus Fruits + Grapes + Olives.