What best describes the term "fiber crops"?

The term "fiber crops" specifically refers to plants cultivated primarily for the purpose of producing fibers that can be processed into yarn and textiles. These crops are valued for their fibers, which are extracted for various uses, including clothing, ropes, and other materials. Cotton, flax, and hemp are prime examples of fiber crops that have been utilized historically for these purposes.

The other choices do not accurately encapsulate the essence of fiber crops. For instance, while some fiber crops may be consumable in specific contexts, such as hemp seeds, the primary classification revolves around their use in textiles rather than human consumption. Similarly, the water requirement of a crop does not define its classification as a fiber crop. Lastly, focusing exclusively on crops cultivated for animal feed overlooks the broad application of fiber crops beyond animal nutrition, reinforcing that the central aim of fiber crops is the fiber itself.