In which one of the following regions is extensive commercial grain cultivation not practised?
Explanation
The correct answer is (D) Amazon Basin. The provided context explicitly states that extensive commercial grain cultivation is 'best developed in Eurasian steppes, the Canadian and American Prairies, the Pampas of Argentina, the Velds of South Africa, the Australian Downs and the Canterbury Plains of New Zealand.' Options (A), (B), and (C) correspond directly to regions listed in the text (American Canadian prairies, European Steppes, and Pampas of Argentina). The Amazon Basin is not included in this list, and the text specifies that this type of agriculture is practised in the 'interior parts of semi-arid lands of the mid-latitudes', which does not describe the Amazon Basin.
Solution Steps
Step 1: Refer to the section of the text discussing 'Extensive Commercial Grain Cultivation' and the list of regions where it is 'best developed'.
Step 2: Verify the regions listed: 'Eurasian steppes', 'Canadian and American Prairies', and 'Pampas of Argentina'.
Step 3: Compare the options with the text. Options (A), (B), and (C) are confirmed locations for this agricultural practice.
Step 4: Identify that Option (D) Amazon Basin is not mentioned in the context and does not fit the 'semi-arid lands of the mid-latitudes' description.