Question

Which of the following statements about Tropical Deciduous Forests are correct?

1. Dry deciduous forests are found in the rainier areas of the Peninsula and plains of Uttar Pradesh.

2. Moist deciduous forests are found in the eastern slopes of the Western Ghats and Odisha.

3. These forests are also known as monsoon forests.

• A. 1 and 2
• B. 2 and 3
• C. 1 and 3
• D. 1, 2, and 3

Answer 1

Answer:

B. 2 and 3

Tropical Deciduous Forests

• Monsoon Forests: These forests are commonly referred to as monsoon forests because their vegetation cycles are heavily influenced by the monsoon seasons.

• Two Types: They are broadly categorized into two types: Moist Deciduous Forests and Dry Deciduous Forests, based on the amount of rainfall they receive.

• Moist Deciduous Forests:

  • Found in areas with moderate rainfall, typically ranging from 100 cm to 200 cm annually.

  • These forests are located in the northeastern part of the country, along the foothills of the Himalayas, eastern slopes of the Western Ghats, and in Odisha.

  • The dominant tree species include Teak, Sal, Bamboo, and Shisham. The trees shed their leaves during the dry season, but not all at once, maintaining a greener appearance for a longer period.

• Dry Deciduous Forests:

  • Found in areas with less rainfall, typically between 70 cm and 100 cm annually.

  • These forests are spread across the drier parts of the Peninsula, and the plains of Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Punjab.

  • The dominant tree species include Pipal, Neem, and various types of Acacia. Trees in these forests are sparser and shed their leaves completely during the dry season to conserve water.

  • Incorrect Statement Analysis: Statement 1 is incorrect because dry deciduous forests are found in the drier regions of the Peninsula and plains of Uttar Pradesh, not the rainier areas. The rainier areas of Uttar Pradesh plains would typically host moist deciduous forests.

  • Correct Statement Analysis: Statement 2 is correct as moist deciduous forests are indeed found on the eastern slopes of the Western Ghats and in Odisha. Statement 3 is also correct, as these forests are widely known as monsoon forests due to their dependence on monsoon rainfall patterns.