NATURAL VEGETATIONS AND FORESTS IN INDIA

NATURAL VEGETATION AND FORESTS IN INDIA   

Natural vegetation and forest and its type is one of the most important part of India Geography  so here is brief description of Natural Vegetation and forest in India by examrewards.com

    CONTENT

·     INTRODUCTION

·     TYPES OF VEGETATION

·      FOREST IN INDIA

·      FAMOUS LOCAL STORM OF HOT WEATHER SEASON

·      FACTORS AFFECTING NATURAL VEGETATION

·      CONSERAVATION OF NATURAL VEGETATION IN INDIA

·      NEEDS OF NATURAL VEGEATATION

INTRODUCTION

India is a vast and ecologically diverse nation, with a coastline stretching over 7500 km and a total geographic area exceeding 329 million hectares. Its ecosystems range from sea level to the world's tallest mountain ranges, encompassing various climatic conditions and vegetation types. This article explores the rich natural vegetation of India, including its extensive plant and animal diversity.

Plant Diversity: India is globally recognized for its remarkable plant diversity, ranking 10th in the world and fourth in Asia. The country is home to approximately 47,000 plant species, which includes flowering plants as well as non-flowering plants like ferns, algae, and fungi. Notably, 6% of the world's flowering plant species are found in India. Among the indigenous plants, some are unique to the nation, known as endemism. For example, the Nepenthes Khasiana, a variety of pitcher plant, is native exclusively to India.

Natural Vegetation: Natural vegetation refers to plant communities that grow without human intervention and remain undisturbed by human activities. These areas are also known as virgin vegetation, and they provide essential habitats for various wildlife species. India's natural vegetation is incredibly diverse, ranging from tropical wet evergreen forests in Northeast India and the Western Ghats to mangroves in the Sundarbans. Additionally, India's ecological variety extends to hot and arid conditions in the northwest, and cold, arid conditions in the trans-Himalayan region.

Exotic Species: While India boasts a rich natural heritage, it also faces challenges due to the introduction of exotic species. Exotic species are plants and animals that have migrated from other regions. Two examples of exotic species in India are the Giant Salvinia (Salvinia molesta) and Water Hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) found in the backwaters of the Kuttanad region in Kerala. These invasive species can disrupt local ecosystems and pose threats to native flora and fauna.

Animal Diversity: The biodiversity of India is not limited to plants; it also extends to the animal kingdom. The nation is home to a staggering 80,000 animal species inhabiting its freshwater and marine ecosystems, which include a diverse range of fish species. The rich fauna of India contributes to its unique and complex ecosystems, making conservation efforts crucial to preserving this delicate balance.

TYPES OF VEGETATION

1-200 cm or more -   Tropical Evergreen Rainforests

2-100 to 200 cm -  Monsoon Or Tropical Deciduous Forests

3-50 to 100 cm -  Dry Deciduous Or Tropical Savannah

4-25 to 50 cm -  Dry Thorn Scrub (Semi-Arid)

5-below 25 cm -  Desert (Arid)

FORESTS IN INDIA

1.Tropical Evergreen Forests

2.Tropical Deciduous Forests

3.Tropical Thorn Forests

4.Montane Forests

5.Littoral and Swamp Forests

1. Tropical evergreen forests and semi evergreen forests –          ( mixture of evergreen and moist Deciduous forests ) found in western Ghats , Northeastern hills , Andaman and Nicobar islands – precipitation over 200 cm in semi evergreen and over 250 cm in evergreen – mean annual Temperature over 22 degree Celsius , height of trees over 60 m tall variety of trees .

-Species found in these forests include Rosewood, Mahogany, Aini, ebony etc.

-No definite season of shedding of leaves.

-Species in semi evergreen include white cedar , hallock and kail .

2. Tropical deciduous forests – also known as monsoon forests and most widespread forests in India , rainfall of 70 to 200 cm divided into dry and moist deciduous on availability of water

2.1 - Moist deciduous – rainfall between 100 to 200 cm found in northeastern states along with foothills of Himalayas, eastern slope of Western Ghats and Eastern Ghats.

2.1.1 - main species are Teak, Sal, Sheesham, Hura, Mahua,  Amla, Semal, Kusum, and Sandalwood .

2.2 - Dry deciduous – covers vast areas of country, rainfall between 70 to 100 cm , transition to moist deciduous on wetter margins and torn thorn forests on drier margins . found in rainier areas of peninsula and plains of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.

2.2.1 - in dry season they shed their leaves completely

2.2.2 - tendu , palash, amaltas , bel , khair , axlewood , are trees found .

3.Tropical thorn forests – rainfall less than 50 cm , consists of variety of grasses and shrubs

3.1 - Found in South West Punjab , Haryana , Rajasthan , Gujrat , Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh

3.2 - In these forests plants remain leafless for most part of the year and gives expression of shrub vegetation

3.3 - Important species includes babool , ber , wild date palm , khair , neem , khejri , palas etc. , tussocky grass grows upto a height of 2 meters as under growth .

4.Montane forests – over 1500 meter altitude forests , classified into northern and southern montane forests , Himalayan and peninsular regions

4.1 - Northern montane forests – decrease in Temperature with increase in height , situated at windward side .

4.2 - Southern montane forests -- `height above 1500 m , temperate vegetation occurs , because of high altitude temperature reduces

4.2.1- Found in Tamil Nadu , Kerala and Karnataka , Nilgiri hills , Annamalai hills , Palni hills – Temperate vegetation known as SHOLAS

4.2.2 - Trees Magnolia, laurel, chinchona , and wattle are important 4.2.3 - Species – such forests are found in 1500m above regions and also found in Satpura hills , Maikal range and lower regions of Eastern Ghats .

5.SEMI DESERT AND DESERT VEGETATION –

5.1 - Rainfall less than 50 cm

5.2 - Aracia , thorny bushes , sand binding grasses (graminoids) , babool and khejur are most common species

5.3 - Plants have deep roots and thick fleshy stems , found in Rajasthan and parts of Karnataka , Punjab and Gujrat

5.4 -  Natural vegetation – Cacti, Babla, Date, Palm, Khair, Babul, Acacias etc.

FAMOUS LOCAL STORMS OF HOT WEATHER SEASON

1.Mango shower – towards the end of summer there are pre monsoon showers which are a common phenomenon in Kerala and Karnataka.

2.Blossom showers – coffee plants blossoming Kerala and nearby areas

3.Norwesters – dreaded evening thunderstorms in Assam and Bengal also called as BARDOLI CHHERBA

4.Loo – hot dry and oppressing winds flowing from Punjab to Bihar

5.During Southwest monsoon - the period after rain for a few days , i9f rain fails to occur for one or more weeks it is known as break in the monsoon .

6. Sudden onset of moisture laden winds with violent thunder and lighting is termed as (burst) of the monsoon.

FACTORS AFFECTING NATURAL VEGETATION

The natural vegetation in India is influenced by various geographical factors. These factors include land characteristics, soil types, altitude, temperature, photoperiod (sunlight), and precipitation. Each of these factors plays a crucial role in determining the distribution and types of vegetation found in different regions of the country.

Land : The characteristics of the land directly and indirectly impact the natural vegetation. Plateaus, plains, and mountainous areas exhibit varying vegetation patterns. Undulating and uneven terrains support the growth of grasslands and woodlands, providing habitats for diverse wildlife. In contrast, fertile plains are typically utilized for agricultural purposes.

Soil : Different soil types support various vegetation types. Mangroves and deltaic vegetation thrive in moist, swampy soils found in deltas, while desert regions with sandy soils are suitable for cactus and prickly bushes. In areas with steep slopes and sufficient soil depth, conical trees flourish.

Altitude: Altitude, similar to latitude, influences the distribution of flora. The rule "altitude mirrors latitude" establishes a significant relationship between latitudinal and altitudinal climate zones and the corresponding natural vegetation.

Temperature: Temperature, along with air and soil humidity, precipitation, and other factors, determines the type and growth of vegetation. Colder climates at higher elevations or latitudes lead to distinct varieties of vegetation and affect their growth characteristics. For instance, the Himalayan slopes and the hills of the peninsula experience a decline in temperature over 915 m in height, resulting in a transition from tropical to subtropical and temperate to alpine vegetation.

Photoperiod : Photoperiod refers to the variation in the length and intensity of the sun's rays at different locations. Latitude, altitude, season, and day length contribute to this variation. Extended periods of sunlight during summers promote higher rates of plant and tree growth. As a result, the Southern Himalayas boast denser vegetation compared to the Northern slopes due to the longer duration of sunshine.

Precipitation: Precipitation, particularly influenced by the South-West monsoon (June to September), significantly impacts vegetation patterns in India. Areas with higher rainfall tend to have more abundant vegetation, such as the tropical evergreen forests flourishing on the western slopes of the Western Ghats, driven by the southwest monsoon rains. In contrast, the eastern slopes receive less rainfall and do not support dense forests.

CONSERVATION OF NATURAL VEGETATION IN INDIA

India has taken significant steps to preserve its rich biodiversity and natural vegetation. Various initiatives have been undertaken at national, provincial, and local levels to safeguard native flora and fauna, protect water bodies, and promote environmental awareness. This article highlights some of the key efforts made by the government and organizations to conserve the country's natural resources.

Creation of Protected Areas: To preserve the area's native flora and fauna, India has established biosphere reserves, wildlife sanctuaries, and national parks. These protected areas serve as crucial habitats for a wide range of plant and animal species. They provide safe spaces for endangered species to thrive and protect valuable ecosystems from human encroachment.

Conservation of Water Bodies: Recognizing the importance of creeks, lakes, and wetlands, efforts have been made to prevent their depletion. The conservation of these water bodies is vital for maintaining ecological balance and supporting various aquatic and avian species. By implementing measures to control pollution and promote sustainable water use, India aims to safeguard these essential resources for future generations.

Mindfulness Initiatives: At the provincial and local levels, mindfulness initiatives like Vanamahotsava and the Social Ranger Service play a significant role in raising environmental awareness. Vanamahotsava is an annual tree-planting festival that encourages citizens to actively participate in afforestation and reforestation activities. The Social Ranger Service engages volunteers in protecting natural areas, monitoring wildlife, and promoting responsible ecotourism.

Support for Botanical Gardens: To preserve plant diversity and promote research on native flora, financial and technological assistance has been provided to numerous botanical gardens since 1992. These gardens serve as repositories of rare and endangered plant species, contributing to their conservation and scientific study.

Wildlife Conservation Projects: India has undertaken various initiatives to preserve its wildlife, including Project Rhino and Project Great Indian Bustard. These projects focus on the conservation and protection of specific endangered species, aiming to increase their populations and ensure their survival in their natural habitats.

Biosphere Reserves: To strengthen conservation efforts, India has designated 18 Biosphere Reserves across the country. These reserves are unique ecosystems that promote the coexistence of people and nature while supporting sustainable development. They serve as excellent models for conservation and management of natural resources.

NEED OF NATURAL VEGETATION

The natural vegetation of India plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance and supporting various life forms, including humans. This article highlights the significance of preserving natural vegetation and the numerous benefits it provides to the environment, wildlife, and society.

Oxygen and Precipitation: Forests are essential for the production of oxygen through photosynthesis. They act as "lungs" of the Earth, releasing oxygen into the atmosphere, which is vital for all living beings. Additionally, forests play a significant role in the water cycle, contributing to precipitation and maintaining regular rainfall patterns.

Soil Erosion Control: The presence of forests helps in reducing soil erosion. The roots of trees hold the soil together, preventing it from being washed away by rainwater or blown away by strong winds. This helps in maintaining soil fertility and preventing land degradation.

Pollination and Seed Dispersal: Plants rely on animals and birds for pollination and seed dissemination. Many plant species depend on insects, birds, and other animals to carry pollen from one flower to another, facilitating reproduction. Similarly, animals play a crucial role in dispersing seeds, aiding in the regeneration of forests.

Medicinal Value: Forests are a treasure trove of medicinal plants. Many traditional and modern medicines are derived from plants found in forests. These natural remedies play a significant role in healthcare and contribute to pharmaceutical research.

Raw Materials for Industries: Various forest products serve as essential raw materials for numerous industries. Wood is used for construction, furniture, and paper production. Additionally, forest resources provide materials for products like resins, gums, and natural oils.

Ecological Stability: Natural vegetation is an integral part of the ecosystem, providing stability to the environment. Forests regulate climate, maintain biodiversity, and support complex food webs. They act as natural habitats for a diverse range of plant and animal species, promoting ecological harmony.

Wildlife Conservation: Forests support diverse wildlife communities, providing them with food, shelter, and breeding grounds. However, several animal species are endangered or have already gone extinct due to habitat loss and human activities. Protecting natural vegetation is vital for preserving wildlife and biodiversity.

Right to Existence: Both animals and humans have the right to coexist on Earth. Conserving natural vegetation is not only essential for maintaining a healthy environment but also for ensuring the survival of various species, including humans.