All questions of Vegetation & Wildlife for UPSC CSE Exam

Tropical Deserts
Tropical deserts are characterized by their hot and dry climate, with very little rainfall. These deserts are found in regions near the equator, where the atmospheric conditions create a lack of moisture in the air. Some of the well-known tropical deserts include the Sahara Desert in Africa, the Arabian Desert in the Middle East, and the Atacama Desert in South America.

Atacama Desert
The Atacama Desert is located in northern Chile, along the Pacific coast of South America. It is known as one of the driest places on Earth, receiving very little rainfall throughout the year. The desert is characterized by its vast expanse of barren landscapes, salt flats, and sand dunes. The extremely arid conditions in the Atacama Desert are a result of the cold Humboldt Current that flows off the coast, preventing the formation of rain clouds.

Arabian Desert
The Arabian Desert is located in the Arabian Peninsula and covers parts of Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates. It is the largest continuous sand desert in the world, with vast stretches of sandy plains, dunes, and gravel plains. The desert experiences extremely high temperatures during the day and very low temperatures at night. The Arabian Desert is known for its unique sand formations, such as sand seas and sand sheets.

Gobi Desert
The Gobi Desert is located in northern China and southern Mongolia. It is a cold desert, rather than a tropical desert, as it experiences extremely cold temperatures during the winter months. The Gobi Desert is characterized by its vast expanses of gravel plains, rocky mountains, and sand dunes. It receives very little rainfall, and most of the precipitation occurs during the summer months.

Kalahari Desert
The Kalahari Desert is located in southern Africa, covering parts of Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa. It is a semi-arid desert, with a mixture of desert and savannah vegetation. The Kalahari Desert experiences a hot climate, with high temperatures during the day and cooler temperatures at night. It receives more rainfall compared to other deserts, with the majority of the precipitation occurring during the summer months.

Conclusion
Out of the given options, the Gobi Desert is not a tropical desert. It is a cold desert situated in northern China and southern Mongolia. The Gobi Desert experiences extremely cold temperatures during the winter months and is characterized by gravel plains, rocky mountains, and sand dunes.

Explanation:

Spruce and cedar are tree varieties that belong to the temperate coniferous forest.

Temperate Coniferous Forest:
The temperate coniferous forest, also known as the taiga or boreal forest, is a biome characterized by cold temperatures, moderate precipitation, and the dominance of coniferous trees. This biome is typically found in the northern hemisphere, primarily in North America, Europe, and Asia.

Spruce:
Spruce trees are a common species found in the temperate coniferous forest. They are tall evergreen trees that have needle-like leaves and bear cones. Spruce trees are adapted to the cold climate of this biome and are able to withstand harsh winter conditions. They are known for their straight trunks and dense foliage, which provide shelter and nesting sites for various bird species.

Cedar:
Cedar trees, specifically the western red cedar, are also found in the temperate coniferous forest. These trees are evergreen and have scale-like leaves. Cedar trees are known for their durability and resistance to decay, which makes them highly valued for their timber. They are commonly used for construction, furniture, and other woodworking purposes.

Characteristics of the Temperate Coniferous Forest:
- Cold temperatures: The temperate coniferous forest experiences long winters with freezing temperatures and short summers.
- Moderate precipitation: This biome receives moderate rainfall throughout the year, with snowfall in winter.
- Coniferous trees: The dominant tree species in this biome are conifers, such as spruce, cedar, fir, and pine.
- Needle-like leaves: Coniferous trees have needle-like leaves that help them conserve water and withstand cold temperatures.
- Wildlife: The temperate coniferous forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, moose, bears, wolves, and various bird species.

In conclusion, spruce and cedar are tree varieties that belong to the temperate coniferous forest biome. They are well-adapted to the cold climate and play a crucial role in the ecosystem by providing habitat and resources for various organisms.

According to the 2011 Forest Survey of India. Mizoram has the third-highest total forest cover with 1,594,000 hectares and highest percentage area (90.68%) covered by forests, among the states of India.

• A national park is a park in use for conservation purposes. Often it is a reserve of natural, semi-natural, or developed land that a sovereign state declares or owns.
• Although individual nations designate their national parks differently, there is a common idea: the conservation of ‘wild nature’ for posterity and as a symbol of national pride.
• The biosphere is the global ecological system integrating all living beings and their relationships, including their interaction with the elements of the lithosphere, geosphere, hydrosphere, and atmosphere

Glossopteris flora is found in Australia, India and South Africa. They are not found in Norway.

Overview of Keibul Lamjao National Park
Keibul Lamjao National Park is a unique and significant ecological area located in Manipur, India. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the key points related to the park:
1. Sanctuary Declaration
- The park was initially declared as a Sanctuary in 1966.
- Its primary aim was to preserve the natural habitat of the endangered Brow-antlered deer, known as Sangai (Rucervus eldi eldi).
2. Unique Characteristics
- Keibul Lamjao is recognized as the only floating national park in the world.
- It is situated near Moirang in the Bishnupur district of Manipur, making it a distinctive ecological feature.
3. National Park Status
- The area was established as a National Park in 1977.
- This transition helped in better conservation efforts and enhanced protection for the local flora and fauna.
Conclusion
- All three statements about Keibul Lamjao National Park are accurate.
- The correct choice is option 'D' as it includes all three crucial facts: the sanctuary declaration in 1966, its unique floating status, and its establishment as a national park in 1977.
This park not only plays a vital role in biodiversity conservation but also contributes to the cultural heritage and ecological balance in the region.

Nilgiri is the first Biosphere Reserve formed in 1986.

The ‘Black Buck National park’ is situated in the Indian state of GJ

The Great Indian Bustard: The Threatened Indian Animal

The Great Indian Bustard (Ardeotis nigriceps) is a critically endangered bird species that is found in the sandy and saline areas of India. This magnificent bird, often referred to as the "godavan" or "ghorad" in Hindi, is one of the largest flying birds in the world and is an important part of India's biodiversity.

1. Habitat:
The Great Indian Bustard is primarily found in the sandy and saline regions of northwestern India, particularly in the states of Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Maharashtra. These areas are characterized by vast grasslands, sandy plains, and saline marshes, which provide the ideal habitat for the bird. The sandy and saline environment provides the necessary conditions for the bird to breed, forage for food, and roost.

2. Threats to Habitat:
However, the Great Indian Bustard is facing severe threats due to the destruction and degradation of its natural habitat. The conversion of grasslands into agricultural fields, rapid urbanization, industrialization, and infrastructure development have resulted in the loss of large areas of suitable habitat for the bird. Additionally, encroachment by human settlements, grazing by livestock, and invasive species have further degraded the remaining habitat.

3. Conservation Efforts:
Efforts are being made to conserve the Great Indian Bustard and its habitat. Several protected areas and wildlife sanctuaries have been established to safeguard the remaining populations of the bird. These include the Desert National Park in Rajasthan, Nannaj Bustard Sanctuary in Maharashtra, and the Kutch Bustard Sanctuary in Gujarat. These protected areas help to regulate human activities, restrict grazing, and prevent further habitat destruction.

4. Need for Further Action:
Despite these conservation efforts, the Great Indian Bustard continues to face numerous challenges. Its population has severely declined over the years, and it is estimated that there are less than 150 individuals remaining in the wild. Therefore, there is an urgent need for increased conservation measures, such as habitat restoration, captive breeding programs, and community-based initiatives to ensure the survival of this iconic species.

In conclusion, the Great Indian Bustard is the threatened Indian animal that is facing the destruction of its sandy and saline habitat. The loss of suitable habitat due to human activities poses a significant threat to the survival of this critically endangered bird. It is essential to prioritize its conservation and take immediate action to protect its habitat and ensure its long-term survival.

• The Dudhwa National Park is a national park in the Terai of Uttar Pradesh, India, and covers an area of 490.3 km2, with a buffer zone of 190 km2. It is part of the Dudhwa Tiger Reserve.
• Kanha National Park, also known as Kanha Tiger Reserve, is a vast expanse of grassland and forest in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. Tigers, jackals and wild pigs can be spotted in Kanha Meadows.
• Indravati Tiger Reserves is a Tiger Reserve area in Chhattisgarh. Bandipur National Park, an 874-sq.-km forested reserve in the southern Indian state of Karnataka, is known for its small population of tigers.

Species Diversity in the Himalayan Range
The Himalayan range stands out as a hotspot of biodiversity due to its unique geographical and climatic characteristics. The most appropriate reason for its rich species diversity is its position as a confluence of different biogeographical zones.
Geographical Confluence
- The Himalayas connect various biogeographical realms, including the Indo-Malayan, Palearctic, and Tibetan zones.
- This convergence allows for a mix of flora and fauna that would not typically coexist in isolated regions.
Elevation Variation
- The range spans a vast altitude gradient, resulting in diverse climatic conditions.
- Different elevations host distinct ecosystems, from tropical forests at lower altitudes to alpine meadows at higher elevations.
Microclimates
- The topography creates numerous microclimates, enabling a variety of species to thrive.
- These localized conditions support unique plant and animal communities adapted to specific environmental factors.
Isolation and Endemism
- The geographical barriers formed by the mountains lead to isolation of species, fostering endemism.
- Many species have evolved uniquely in these isolated environments, adding to overall biodiversity.
Human Impact
- While human interference exists, many parts of the Himalayas remain relatively untouched, preserving natural habitats.
- Less human encroachment in certain areas allows for the survival of diverse species.
In summary, option 'B' illustrates the primary reason behind the rich biodiversity in the Himalayan range—its role as a meeting point for different biogeographical zones, which fosters a unique and diverse array of species.

82°30’ E has been taken as the standard meridian in India.

The forest cover : Europe>South America>North America>Africa> Asia>Oceania

Understanding the Statements
The statements provided discuss the characteristics of tropical evergreen forests in India and the historical context of forest exploitation during British colonial rule.
Statement-I Analysis
- Tropical evergreen forests are indeed located in regions that are:
- Warm and humid
- Receive over 200 cm of annual precipitation
- Have a mean annual temperature exceeding 22°C
- These forests are primarily found in areas such as the Western Ghats, northeastern India, and parts of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Statement-II Analysis
- The British colonial rulers recognized the economic value of India's forests, which led to:
- Large-scale exploitation of timber and other forest resources
- Changes in the composition and structure of forests due to overharvesting and monoculture plantations
- This exploitation significantly impacted the biodiversity and ecological balance of forested areas in India.
Conclusion
- Both statements are accurate:
- Statement-I correctly describes the ecological conditions of tropical evergreen forests in India.
- Statement-II explains the historical context that led to the exploitation of these forests, contributing to the forest composition changes.
Thus, the correct choice is option 'A': Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II explains Statement-I.

Biomass is the mass of living biological organisms in a given area or ecosystem at a given time. Over 90% of the Biomass is in Oceans.

The Patagonian desert is a temperate desert located in southern Argentina and Chile. It is the largest desert in the Americas and one of the few temperate deserts in the world. Here is a detailed explanation of why the Patagonian desert is considered a temperate desert:

1. Location and Climate:
- The Patagonian desert is situated in the southern regions of Argentina and Chile, extending from the Atlantic Ocean to the Andes Mountains.
- It lies in the temperate zone, where the climate is influenced by the cool ocean currents and the mountain ranges.
- The region experiences mild summers and cold winters, with average temperatures ranging from 8°C (46°F) in the summer to -2°C (28°F) in the winter.
- The average annual precipitation is relatively low, ranging from 100 to 400 mm (4 to 16 inches), which is a defining characteristic of deserts.

2. Vegetation:
- The vegetation in the Patagonian desert is sparse but diverse. It consists mainly of shrubs, grasses, and low-growing plants.
- Some of the common plant species found in this desert include the thorny scrub, tussock grasses, and cushions plants.
- These plants have adaptations to survive in the arid conditions, such as deep root systems to access underground water sources and thick waxy leaves to reduce water loss through evaporation.

3. Wildlife:
- Despite the harsh conditions, the Patagonian desert is home to a variety of wildlife. It is known for its unique fauna, including several endemic species.
- Some of the iconic animals found in this desert are the guanaco (a relative of the llama), the mara (a large rodent), and the Darwin's rhea (a flightless bird).
- There are also several bird species, such as the Andean condor, which inhabit the cliffs and mountains of the region.

4. Human Settlements:
- The Patagonian desert has a low population density due to its harsh climate and limited resources.
- However, there are some small towns and settlements scattered across the desert, mainly focused on agriculture and tourism.
- The region is popular among tourists for its stunning landscapes, including glaciers, fjords, and mountains.

In conclusion, the Patagonian desert is considered a temperate desert due to its location in the temperate zone, its mild climate with distinct seasons, low precipitation, and unique desert flora and fauna.

Characteristics of Tropical Deciduous Forests:

1. Trees shed their leaves in the dry season to conserve water:
Tropical deciduous forests are characterized by trees that shed their leaves during the dry season to conserve water. This adaptation helps the trees survive the prolonged periods of drought that are common in these regions.

2. The hardwood trees found in these forests are sal, teak, and Sheesham:
Tropical deciduous forests are home to a variety of hardwood trees such as sal, teak, and Sheesham. These trees are prized for their strong and durable wood, making them valuable resources for timber production.

3. Tigers, lions, elephants, and monkeys are common animals:
These forests are rich in biodiversity and are home to a wide range of animal species. Common animals found in tropical deciduous forests include tigers, lions, elephants, and monkeys. These forests provide important habitats for these animals and support a diverse ecosystem.

4. All of the above characteristics:
All the characteristics mentioned above are true for tropical deciduous forests. These forests play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance and supporting a wide range of plant and animal species.

The Valley of Flowers

The Valley of Flowers is a stunningly beautiful national park located in the Garhwal Himalayas, making option 'B' the correct answer. Situated in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination for its breathtaking natural beauty and diverse flora.

Location
The Valley of Flowers is nestled in the western Himalayas and is part of the Zanskar range. It lies in the transition zone between the Greater Himalayas and the Zanskar Himalayas. The park stretches over an area of approximately 87.5 square kilometers and is situated at an altitude ranging from 3,200 to 6,675 meters above sea level.

Accessibility
To reach the Valley of Flowers, one needs to travel to Joshimath, a small town in the Chamoli district. From Joshimath, a trek of approximately 17 kilometers leads to the entry gate of the national park. The trek takes visitors through picturesque landscapes, including dense forests, cascading waterfalls, and meandering rivers. The journey to the valley is not only physically challenging but also rewarding, offering mesmerizing views of the surrounding mountains.

Flora and Fauna
The Valley of Flowers is renowned for its rich floral diversity, which includes hundreds of species of wildflowers, alpine flowers, and rare Himalayan flowers. The park is home to numerous endemic and endangered plant species, such as the Brahma Kamal (Saussurea obvallata), Blue Poppy (Meconopsis aculeata), and Cobra Lily (Arisaema tortuosum). The blooming season, which usually occurs from July to September, transforms the valley into a vibrant carpet of colorful flowers, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.

Conservation and Protection
The Valley of Flowers was declared a national park in 1982 and was later designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2005. The park is protected under various environmental laws and regulations to preserve its unique biodiversity. The area is strictly monitored to prevent any harm to the fragile ecosystem. Visitors are required to obtain permits and follow specific guidelines to ensure sustainable tourism and minimal impact on the environment.

Conclusion
The Valley of Flowers, located in the Garhwal Himalayas, is a natural paradise renowned for its breathtaking beauty and diverse floral wealth. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the lap of nature and witness the enchanting charm of the Himalayas.

The wide treeless grassy plains in South America are called Pampas.

The Pampas are vast grasslands that stretch across South America, primarily in Argentina and Uruguay but also extending into Brazil and Paraguay. These plains cover an area of approximately 750,000 square kilometers, making them one of the largest continuous grassland ecosystems in the world.

The Pampas are characterized by their flat and fertile landscape, ideal for extensive agricultural activities. The region is known for its rich and deep soil, which is highly suitable for farming and grazing. The grasslands support a diverse range of plant species, including perennial grasses such as buffalo grass and feather grass, as well as wildflowers and shrubs.

Climate:
The Pampas region experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius (77 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit). Winters are mild, with temperatures averaging around 10 degrees Celsius (50 degrees Fahrenheit). Precipitation is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year, ranging from 500 to 1,000 millimeters annually.

Flora and Fauna:
The Pampas are home to a diverse range of plant and animal species. The grasslands support a variety of herbaceous plants, including grasses, sedges, and rushes. Some of the dominant grass species found in the Pampas include Stipa spp., Paspalum spp., and Poa spp.

The Pampas are also home to a rich array of wildlife. The grasslands provide habitat for numerous species of mammals, such as guanacos, capybaras, and marsh deer. The region is also known for its bird diversity, with over 300 species recorded, including rheas, tinamous, and various waterfowl.

Human Activities:
The Pampas have long been utilized for agricultural purposes. The fertile soil and favorable climate make it an ideal region for farming and ranching. The grasslands are primarily used for grazing livestock, particularly cattle and sheep. Argentina, in particular, is renowned for its beef production, with the Pampas playing a significant role in the country's agricultural economy.

In addition to agriculture, the Pampas region also supports urban settlements and industrial activities. Major cities such as Buenos Aires and Montevideo are located within the Pampas, serving as economic and cultural centers.

Conservation and Challenges:
The Pampas face several challenges related to unsustainable land use practices and habitat fragmentation. Conversion of grasslands into croplands, overgrazing, and the use of agrochemicals pose threats to the ecosystem's integrity. Additionally, the expansion of urban areas and infrastructure development further fragment the grasslands, impacting wildlife populations and their migration patterns.

Efforts are being made to conserve and restore the Pampas ecosystem. Protected areas have been established to safeguard key habitats and species, and sustainable land management practices are being promoted to mitigate the negative impacts of agriculture. These conservation initiatives aim to maintain the ecological integrity of the Pampas while supporting sustainable development in the region.

Organism → Population → Ecosystem → Biosphere

Western ghats spread over parts of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka and Maharashtra are rich in biodiversity due to presence of evergreen forests.

Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve is located in Uttarakhand. It was inscribed a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1988

The solar radiation is intense and to a great extent, diffuse due to haze. It, therefore, demands generous shading devices. The haze may cause sky glare which can also be reduced by large shading devices.

Savanna has a transitional type of climate which is bounded between equatorial rain forest and semi-arid and subtropical humid climate. Others are called mid-latitude grasslands.

Hailey National Park after Sir Malcolm Hailey, the then Governor of United Provinces.

4. The park is located in the state of Uttarakhand in northern India.

5. It is known for its significant population of Bengal tigers, along with other wildlife species such as leopards, elephants, and deer.

6. The park is a popular tourist destination and offers various activities such as jeep safaris, bird watching, and nature walks.

7. It is also famous for its scenic beauty, with lush forests, rivers, and waterfalls.

8. The park is named after Jim Corbett, a British-Indian hunter and conservationist, who played a key role in establishing the park and protecting its wildlife.

9. Jim Corbett National Park is spread over an area of approximately 520 square kilometers.

10. It was declared a national park in 1936 and has since been a major conservation area for endangered species.

The trees in Monsoon Forests shed their leaves for about six to eight weeks in summer on account of a long dry spell. The rainfall suited for such forests is between75 to 200 cm. Sal is of the dry deciduous variety of tropical monsoon forest.

• Tropical rainforests of India are found in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the Western Ghats, which fringe the Arabian Sea, the coastline of peninsular India, and the greater Assam region in the north-east. Small remnants of rainforest are found in Odisha state.
• Monsoon forest – Uttar Pradesh and Bihar Thorny bushes - The Thorn Forests and Scrubs are found in regions where the rainfall is less than 70cm. The vegetation in these forests is thorny trees and bushes. The Thorn Forests are found in the semi-arid areas of Gujarat & Rajasthan. Tidal forest – Sunderbans

Protected Mangrove Region in Eastern Ghats

Mangroves are tropical trees and shrubs that grow in dense forests along sheltered coastlines, lagoons, and estuaries. They have unique adaptations to survive in harsh conditions such as saltwater, low oxygen, and strong waves. Mangroves are important ecosystems that provide numerous benefits such as carbon sequestration, coastal protection, fisheries, and tourism.

In India, mangroves are found in several regions including the Eastern Ghats. The Eastern Ghats is a mountain range that runs parallel to the Bay of Bengal in eastern India. It covers several states including Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. The Eastern Ghats region has several protected areas that include mangrove forests.

One of the notable protected mangrove regions in the Eastern Ghats is the Bhitarkanika National Park in Odisha. Bhitarkanika is a unique ecosystem that consists of mangrove forests, wetlands, and estuaries. It is home to a variety of wildlife such as saltwater crocodiles, spotted deer, wild boars, and several species of birds. Bhitarkanika is also a Ramsar site, which is a wetland of international importance.

Other protected mangrove regions in the Eastern Ghats include the Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary in Andhra Pradesh and the Pichavaram Mangrove Forest in Tamil Nadu. Coringa is a coastal estuary that has a diverse mangrove ecosystem with over 35 species of mangroves. Pichavaram is a unique ecosystem that consists of a network of canals and channels that crisscross the mangrove forests. It is also a popular tourist destination for boating and birdwatching.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Eastern Ghats region has several protected areas that include mangrove forests. These ecosystems are important for their biodiversity, ecological functions, and socio-economic benefits. Protecting and conserving mangroves is crucial for sustaining these benefits and ensuring the resilience of coastal communities.

Correct option is B.

A most abundant source of energy is solar power energy. It is the cleanest and most abundant renewable energy source available.