What geographic feature was often used for farming by the Inca?

The Inca civilization is well-known for its innovative agricultural techniques, particularly the use of terraces. Given the rugged mountainous terrain of the Andes, traditional farming methods were often impractical. Instead, the Incas developed terrace farming, which involved carving steps into the mountainsides to create flat, arable land. This technique not only maximized the use of limited space but also enabled effective drainage and soil conservation, crucial for growing crops in a region with varied climate conditions.

Terracing allowed the Incas to cultivate a range of crops, including potatoes, maize, and quinoa, which were staple foods for their society. The method also helped mitigate soil erosion and made it possible to farm on steep slopes where flat land was scarce.

While alluvial plains could be highly productive for farming, the Inca environment was defined by its mountainous landscape, making terraces a vital adaptation. Although mountains were part of their landscape, they mainly served as the region's backdrop rather than as direct cultivable land without modification. Swamps also do not reflect the traditional farming practices of the Inca; they were not situated in such environments nor did they rely on wetland agriculture like some other civilizations.