Chapter 5 - Natural Vegetation and Wildlife (Overview) - CBSE NCERT Class 9, Geography

Natural vegetation and wildlife are essential components of the Earth's ecosystem. They play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of nature and providing various ecological services. In this chapter, we will explore the different types of natural vegetation and wildlife found in various regions of the world.

1. Introduction to Natural Vegetation:
Natural vegetation refers to the plant cover that grows without any human interference. It includes forests, grasslands, shrubs, and other types of plants. The distribution of natural vegetation is influenced by factors like climate, topography, soil, and human activities.

2. Types of Natural Vegetation:
a) Forests: Forests are dense ecosystems dominated by trees. They are classified into various types based on the type of trees, such as tropical rainforests, temperate forests, and coniferous forests. Forests are home to a wide variety of flora and fauna.

b) Grasslands: Grasslands are ecosystems dominated by grasses and herbaceous plants. They are found in regions with moderate rainfall and are further classified into tropical grasslands (savannas) and temperate grasslands (prairies).

c) Scrubs: Scrubs are areas covered with shrubs and small trees. They are commonly found in arid and semi-arid regions with low rainfall. Scrubs are adapted to survive in harsh climatic conditions.

d) Tundra: Tundra is a cold region with low-growing vegetation like mosses, lichens, and small shrubs. It is found in the Arctic and alpine regions where the temperature remains below freezing for most of the year.

3. Wildlife:
Wildlife refers to the animal species that inhabit various ecosystems. It includes mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects. Wildlife is closely associated with natural vegetation as animals depend on plants for food and shelter.

4. Conservation of Natural Vegetation and Wildlife:
Due to various human activities like deforestation, habitat destruction, and poaching, natural vegetation and wildlife face numerous threats. Conservation efforts, such as protected areas, wildlife sanctuaries, and national parks, are crucial to safeguarding these resources. Additionally, sustainable practices like afforestation, reforestation, and wildlife conservation programs are essential for the long-term preservation of natural vegetation and wildlife.

In conclusion, natural vegetation and wildlife are vital components of our planet's ecosystem. Understanding their distribution and conservation is crucial for maintaining the balance of nature and preserving biodiversity.