All questions of Forests - Our Lifeline for Class 7 Exam

Gum , plywood and sealing wax are forest products . whereas Kerosene is a fossil fuel . So , it's not a forest product .

Decomposers like fungi and bacteria break down dead plant and animal matter, recycling nutrients back into the soil. This process is essential for the nutrient cycle in the forest ecosystem.

Understanding the Forest Canopy
The statement regarding the forest canopy is indeed true. Here’s a detailed explanation:
Role of the Forest Canopy
- The forest canopy is the upper layer of trees and vegetation in a forest.
- It plays a critical role in intercepting rainfall, which affects the forest ecosystem significantly.
Interception of Raindrops
- When it rains, the leaves and branches of the trees capture raindrops.
- This process is known as interception, which prevents some of the rain from reaching the ground directly.
Water Movement Through the Canopy
- The raindrops that are intercepted do not always remain on the leaves.
- They can either evaporate back into the atmosphere or trickle down through the branches and stems of the trees.
- Much of the water eventually makes its way down to the forest floor, contributing to soil moisture.
Impact on the Ecosystem
- This mechanism is essential for maintaining the health of the forest ecosystem.
- It helps regulate moisture levels in the environment, supports plant growth, and maintains the habitat for various wildlife species.
In conclusion, the forest canopy intercepts raindrops, allowing water to flow down through the branches and stems of trees, confirming that the statement is true.

Understanding the Diet of Mushrooms and Micro-organisms
Mushrooms and other micro-organisms play a vital role in our ecosystem as decomposers. Here’s a closer look at what they feed on:
Decomposing Organic Matter
- Mushrooms and many micro-organisms primarily feed on dead plant and animal tissues.
- They break down complex organic materials, returning essential nutrients to the soil.
Importance in Nature
- This process of decomposition is crucial for nutrient cycling.
- It allows for the recycling of nutrients like carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus, which are essential for plant growth.
How They Feed
- Mushrooms secrete enzymes that break down the organic matter into simpler compounds.
- They then absorb these nutrients through their cell walls, effectively "digesting" their food externally.
Comparison with Other Organisms
- Unlike predators that consume living animals, mushrooms and micro-organisms do not hunt.
- They are saprobes, meaning they thrive on decaying organic matter, contributing to the health of the ecosystem.
Conclusion
- In summary, mushrooms and micro-organisms are essential decomposers in the food web.
- Their diet of dead plant and animal tissues not only sustains them but also supports the entire ecological balance by enriching the soil.
Understanding their role helps us appreciate the importance of maintaining a healthy ecosystem.

Forests Influence on Various Aspects:

Temperature:
Forests play a significant role in regulating temperature. The shade provided by trees helps in cooling the air temperature in a forested area. Additionally, trees release water vapor through a process called transpiration, which also helps in cooling the surrounding environment.

Climate:
Forests have a major impact on the climate of a region. They absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, which helps in mitigating the greenhouse effect and reducing global warming. The presence of forests can also affect local weather patterns and precipitation levels.

Animals:
Forests are crucial habitats for a wide variety of animal species. The diverse ecosystems found in forests provide food, shelter, and breeding grounds for animals. Deforestation can lead to the loss of habitat for many species, resulting in a decline in biodiversity.

All of these:
Forests are vital for maintaining ecological balance and supporting life on Earth. They not only influence temperature, climate, and animal habitats but also play a crucial role in water cycles, soil conservation, and air quality. Therefore, it is essential to protect and preserve forests for the well-being of our planet and future generations.

Understanding Flooding in Forests
When forests experience flooding, they play a crucial role in managing the excess water. The correct answer, option 'B', highlights how forests can absorb this water, which is vital for maintaining ecological balance.
How Forests Absorb Water
- Natural Sponges: Forests act like natural sponges. The trees, plants, and soil work together to soak up water. This absorption helps to mitigate the impact of flooding.
- Root Systems: The extensive root systems of trees can hold significant amounts of water. This prevents immediate runoff and allows water to seep into the ground gradually.
Preventing Soil Erosion
- Stabilizing Soil: When forests absorb excess water, they reduce the speed at which water flows over the ground. This slow movement prevents soil from being washed away, thereby protecting the topsoil.
- Maintaining Ecosystems: By preventing soil erosion, forests help maintain the health of the ecosystem. Healthy soil is essential for plant growth and supports a diverse range of wildlife.
Conclusion
In summary, when forests flood, they have a remarkable ability to absorb excess water, which helps prevent soil erosion and maintain ecological balance. This vital function underscores the importance of preserving forests as they contribute significantly to the environment, especially during extreme weather events.

In a forest, waste materials decompose and are recycled back into the ecosystem, thanks to decomposers. This natural process ensures that nutrients are continuously reused, preventing the accumulation of waste.