The Himalayan Range is very rich in species diversity. Which one among...
The Himalayan region, which is rich in vegetative life, possesses varieties that can be found practically from the tropical to tundra regions. Only the altitude influences the distribution of vegetation. In the rest of the country, the type of vegetation is largely determined by the amount of rainfall. Outside the Himalayan region, the country can be divided into three major vegetation regions: the tropical wet evergreen and semi-evergreen forests, the tropical deciduous forests, and the thorn forests and shrubs. Vegetation of the Assam region in the east is luxuriant with evergreen forests, occasional thick clumps of bamboo and tall grasses. The Gangetic plain is largely under cultivation. The Deccan tableland supports vegetation from scrub to mixed deciduous forests. The Malabar region is rich in forest vegetation. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands have evergreen, mangrove, beach and diluvial forests. Much of the country's flora originated three million years ago and are unique to the sub-continent.
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The Himalayan Range is very rich in species diversity. Which one among...
Introduction
The Himalayan Range is known for its rich species diversity. Among the given options, the most appropriate reason for this phenomenon is that it is a confluence of different bio-geographical zones.
Explanation
The Himalayas are a unique geographical feature that spans across several countries including India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet. It is one of the world's major mountain ranges, and its diverse topography and climatic conditions contribute to its rich species diversity. Here's why the confluence of different bio-geographical zones is the most appropriate reason for this phenomenon:
1. Diverse Climatic Zones
The Himalayan Range spans across a wide range of climatic zones, ranging from tropical to alpine. This variation in climatic conditions creates different habitats for various species to thrive. It provides opportunities for a wide variety of flora and fauna to coexist.
2. Vegetation Types
The Himalayas are home to various vegetation types, such as tropical rainforests, temperate forests, and alpine meadows. Each vegetation type supports a unique set of species adapted to that particular environment. The confluence of these vegetation types results in a high diversity of plant species.
3. Altitudinal Gradient
The Himalayas also have a significant altitudinal gradient, with peaks ranging from a few hundred meters to over 8,000 meters above sea level. This gradient creates different temperature and precipitation patterns at various altitudes, which in turn support a wide range of species adapted to different elevations.
4. Migration Routes
The Himalayas act as a barrier and a bridge for species migration. It separates different bio-geographical zones, preventing the intermixing of species. However, it also provides corridors and routes for species to move between these zones. This facilitates species exchange and leads to a higher diversity of species in the region.
5. Ecotones
The meeting points of different bio-geographical zones in the Himalayas create ecotones - transitional areas where species from different zones overlap. These ecotones are known for their high species diversity as they provide unique habitats and resources that attract a variety of species.
Conclusion
The Himalayan Range's rich species diversity can be attributed to the confluence of different bio-geographical zones. The diverse climatic zones, vegetation types, altitudinal gradient, migration routes, and ecotones in the region provide a wide range of habitats and resources for various species to thrive. This makes the Himalayas a hotspot of biodiversity and a vital ecological treasure.
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