The correct answer is b) Wetland ecosystems.
Peaty soils are formed in wetlands, which are areas of land that are saturated with water for long periods of time. Peat is a type of organic matter that is formed from the remains of plants that have died and decomposed in the wetland environment. Peat soils are typically acidic and have low fertility. They are also very waterlogged, which makes them difficult to cultivate.
Option a) Dry areas is incorrect because peaty soils are not characteristic of dry areas. Peat soils are formed in wetlands, which are areas of land that are saturated with water for long periods of time. Dry areas, on the other hand, are characterized by low levels of precipitation and high levels of evaporation.
Option c) Hilly regions is incorrect because peaty soils are not characteristic of hilly regions. Peat soils are formed in wetlands, which are areas of land that are saturated with water for long periods of time. Hilly regions, on the other hand, are characterized by uneven terrain and a variety of slopes.
Option d) Lateritic regions is incorrect because peaty soils are not characteristic of lateritic regions. Lateritic soils are formed in tropical and subtropical regions where there is a high rainfall and a low evaporation rate. Peat soils, on the other hand, are formed in wetlands, which are areas of land that are saturated with water for long periods of time.