Question 4365
Tropical Evergreen Forests in India is found in which of the following regions?
Answer
upper parts of Assam
Why?
The correct answer is upper parts of Assam . Key Points Tropical Evergreen Forests are found in regions with high annual rainfall (more than 200 cm) and temperatures averaging between 22°C and 27°C . These conditions allow dense, multi-layered vegetation to thrive. The upper parts of Assam in Northeast India are one of the most prominent regions where tropical evergreen forests are found due to the area's high humidity and heavy rainfall . These forests are characterized by their thick canopy , which does not allow sunlight to penetrate the ground, and hence, they remain green throughout the year. Some typical trees found in these forests include mahogany, rosewood, ebony, and ironwood . These species are valued for their hardwood , which is commercially significant. Assam's tropical evergreen forests also support a variety of fauna , including elephants, tigers, leopards, and several species of monkeys and birds, making it a region rich in biodiversity. Regions like West Odisha , Chhattisgarh , and Uttar Pradesh do not meet the required climatic conditions to support tropical evergreen forests. Hence, they do not harbor this type of forest. Additional Information Tropical Evergreen Forest Characteristics: These forests are also referred to as rainforests due to the abundance of rainfall throughout the year. The trees in these forests are known for their tall heights , often exceeding 60 meters, with a dense canopy that blocks sunlight. The soil in these forests is rich in organic content but often leached due to heavy rainfall, which can make agriculture challenging. Epiphytes, creepers, and lianas are commonly found in tropical evergreen forests, adding to the forest's biodiversity. Distribution of Tropical Evergreen Forests in India: Besides the upper parts of Assam , these forests are also found in regions like Western Ghats, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and parts of Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, and Meghalaya . The Western Ghats, especially in Kerala and Karnataka, host a significant portion of these forests due to their coastal and high-altitude climate . Flora and Fauna: Flora: Notable trees include rubber, mahogany, coconut, and bamboo , which thrive in the warm and humid climate. Fauna: These forests are home to species like Indian hornbills, great Indian hornbills, elephants, and gibbons . The biodiversity is often unparalleled in these ecosystems. Importance of Tropical Evergreen Forests: They play a crucial role in maintaining the global carbon cycle and act as a significant carbon sink. The forests are a source of medicinal plants and rare species that are integral to traditional medicine. They are vital for climate regulation and act as buffers against extreme weather events like cyclones and floods. Important Points In 2018 , the Forest Survey of India (FSI) highlighted that tropical evergreen forests constitute about 7% of India's total forest cover . Conservation efforts are critical as these forests face threats from deforestation, illegal logging, and climate change . The Indian government has initiated programs like Project Elephant and National Afforestation Programme to preserve biodiversity in these forests. Tourism in areas like Assam's Kaziranga National Park indirectly aids conservation by generating resources for forest protection.
