Describe the classification of agro ecological zones of Kenya,giving examples of crops and livestock domesticated?

Kenya is classified into several agro-ecological zones based on factors such as climate, soil type, and topography. These zones are important for determining the types of crops and livestock that can be successfully domesticated in each region.

1. Highland zones: These zones are characterized by cool temperatures and high rainfall, making them suitable for crops such as tea, coffee, and vegetables. Livestock such as dairy cattle and sheep are also commonly raised in these areas.

2. Mid-altitude zones: These zones have moderate temperatures and rainfall, making them suitable for a wide range of crops including maize, beans, and potatoes. Livestock such as poultry and pigs are also commonly raised in these areas.

3. Arid and semi-arid zones: These zones have low rainfall and high temperatures, making them suitable for drought-resistant crops such as sorghum, millet, and camel meat. Livestock such as camels, goats, and sheep are also commonly raised in these areas.

4. Coastal zones: These zones have a warm and humid climate, making them suitable for crops such as coconut, cashew nuts, and mangoes. Livestock such as poultry and cattle are also commonly raised in these areas.

Overall, the classification of agro-ecological zones in Kenya helps farmers determine the most suitable crops and livestock to cultivate in each region, based on the prevailing environmental conditions.

Agro-Ecological Zones of Kenya

Kenya is divided into eight agro-ecological zones (AEZs) based on factors such as altitude, temperature, rainfall, and soil fertility. Each AEZ has distinct agricultural characteristics and supports different crops and livestock.

1. Upper Highland Zone (UH)

- Altitude: 1800-2400 m
- Rainfall: 900-1200 mm
- Temperature: 16-18°C
- Crops: Tea, coffee, pyrethrum, wheat, barley, potatoes, beans
- Livestock: Dairy cattle, sheep

2. Lower Highland Zone (LH)

- Altitude: 1200-1800 m
- Rainfall: 750-1000 mm
- Temperature: 18-20°C
- Crops: Maize, beans, wheat, coffee, pyrethrum, potatoes
- Livestock: Dairy cattle, beef cattle, pigs, poultry

3. Upper Midland Zone (UM)

- Altitude: 900-1200 m
- Rainfall: 650-800 mm
- Temperature: 20-22°C
- Crops: Maize, beans, sorghum, cotton, millet
- Livestock: Beef cattle, goats, sheep

4. Lower Midland Zone (LM)

- Altitude: 600-900 m
- Rainfall: 500-650 mm
- Temperature: 22-24°C
- Crops: Maize, sorghum, millet, cassava, sweet potatoes
- Livestock: Beef cattle, goats, sheep

5. Upper Savannah Zone (US)

- Altitude: 300-600 m
- Rainfall: 400-500 mm
- Temperature: 24-26°C
- Crops: Maize, sorghum, millet, beans
- Livestock: Beef cattle, goats, sheep

6. Lower Savannah Zone (LS)

- Altitude: 150-300 m
- Rainfall: 300-400 mm
- Temperature: 26-28°C
- Crops: Maize, sorghum, millet, cassava, sweet potatoes, cotton
- Livestock: Beef cattle, goats, sheep, camels

7. Coastal Lowland Zone (CL)

- Altitude: 0-150 m
- Rainfall: 600-1000 mm
- Temperature: 26-28°C
- Crops: Coconut, cashew nuts, mangoes, bananas, maize
- Livestock: Cattle, goats, sheep

8. Arid and Semi-Arid Zone (ASAL)

- Altitude: 0-900 m
- Rainfall: <300 mm
- Temperature: 28-30°C
- Crops: Drought-tolerant crops (e.g., sorghum, millet, green grams)
- Livestock: Camels, goats, sheep