Which of the following factors does not influence the distribution of cattle in West Africa?
Answer Details
The factor that does not influence the distribution of cattle in West Africa is "light."
Cattle need food and water to survive, and in West Africa, the most important factor that influences the distribution of cattle is "rainfall." This is because rainfall directly affects the availability of water and pasture for the cattle to feed on. Areas with high rainfall generally have more abundant vegetation, which provides grazing for the cattle, and a greater supply of water.
Diseases also affect the distribution of cattle in West Africa. Some diseases, such as trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness), are transmitted by tsetse flies and can only be found in areas where the flies are present. As a result, cattle cannot be kept in these areas without being treated with prophylactic drugs or without adopting other strategies to control the disease.
Pastures also play a critical role in the distribution of cattle in West Africa. Areas with fertile soils and abundant grasses and shrubs are preferred for grazing. In contrast, areas with poor soil fertility or that have been overgrazed are less favorable for cattle.
Light, on the other hand, does not have a direct influence on the distribution of cattle in West Africa. While it is true that cattle require sunlight for growth and metabolism, the intensity and duration of sunlight are fairly consistent across the region, and thus do not vary enough to affect the distribution of cattle.