Which moisture-delivery mechanism maintained productivity and averted desertification in the ancient terrace agriculture of the Andes?

💡 Explanation

The capillary action mechanism, drawing groundwater upwards through soil profiles, sustained plant life. Rainfall infiltrated into hillside aquifers that, because of soil composition, moved laterally, therefore, this mechanism maintained moisture, rather than direct moisture capture. Torrential downpour could also accelerate erosion.

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