ABSTRACT
The world is dependent upon relatively few plant species as sources of food, oil, and fiber. Cereals are the most important crop group produced in the world, with an annual production of over one and one half billion metric tons. Wheat, maize, and rice are the world’s most important food crops. Root and tuber crops also represent an important source of food. Pulse crops are important sources of protein in many countries. Asia is the largest producer of pulse crops, with dry beans and peas being the most important. Cotton is the world’s major fiber crop, followed by jute. Asia is the region that produces the greatest quantities of these two crops. Almost one half of the coffee in the world is produced in South America, while over one half of the cocoa comes from Africa. Asia is the major producer of tea and tobacco.
