Which environmental vulnerability increased significantly in areas relying heavily on maize cultivation during the pre-Columbian era?

💡 Explanation

When maize was cultivated extensively, soil nutrient depletion occurred because maize is a heavy feeder and monocropping prevents natural replenishment, leading to increased soil erosion due to lack of stabilizing vegetation. Therefore soil erosion increased, rather than water salinization deforestation or siltation, all linked to alternative practices and resources.

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