In which region would you most likely find taiga?

The presence of taiga, also known as boreal forest, is predominantly associated with cold climates characterized by long, harsh winters and short summers. This biogeographical region typically includes coniferous forests that thrive in these cold temperatures. The mention of "ample mineral resources" emphasizes the geological conditions often found in regions where taiga is located, combined with the necessary cold climate that supports the growth of coniferous trees.

In contrast, hot desert areas lack the moisture needed for forest growth, temperate plains do not provide the specific cold conditions necessary for taiga, and equatorial regions are characterized by warm, humid climates, which are more suited to tropical rainforests rather than the coniferous forests of the taiga. Thus, the context of cold climates rich in minerals aligns well with the geographical characteristics of the taiga.