Important Questions (1 mark): Natural Vegetation And Wildlife - Class 9 MCQ

Explanation:
The correct answer is Exotic Species. These are types of natural vegetation that have originally come to India from abroad.
Exotic species are plants or animals that have been introduced to a new area or country from another region. These species are not native to the area and have been brought in intentionally or unintentionally by humans.
Examples of exotic species in India:
- Eucalyptus: This species was introduced from Australia and is now widely cultivated in India for its timber and pulpwood.
- Acacia: Various species of Acacia, such as Acacia auriculiformis and Acacia mangium, have been introduced from Australia and are now found in many parts of India.
- Lantana: Lantana camara, a flowering plant native to Central and South America, was brought to India as an ornamental plant but has now become invasive in many regions.
These exotic species often have the potential to become invasive and cause harm to native vegetation and ecosystems. Therefore, it is important to manage and control their spread to maintain the balance of natural vegetation in India.

Tropical evergreen forests
- Ebony, mahogany, rosewood, rubber, and cinchona are important trees found in tropical evergreen forests.
- These forests are characterized by high rainfall and constant high temperatures throughout the year.
- They are also known as rainforests and are found in regions near the equator, such as the Amazon rainforest in South America, the Congo rainforest in Africa, and the Southeast Asian rainforests.
- These forests have a dense tree canopy that allows very little sunlight to penetrate to the forest floor.
- The trees in tropical evergreen forests are known for their height and diversity, providing habitats for a wide range of plant and animal species.
- Ebony is a valuable hardwood tree used for furniture and musical instruments.
- Mahogany is another valuable timber tree known for its durability and beauty.
- Rosewood is prized for its use in furniture and decorative items.
- Rubber trees are a major source of natural rubber, which is used in various industries.
- Cinchona trees are known for their bark, which contains quinine, a compound used to treat malaria.
- The abundance of these tree species in tropical evergreen forests makes them important for both ecological and economic reasons.

Wildlife Protection Act in India
The Wildlife Protection Act in India is a legislation enacted to protect the wildlife and their habitats in the country. It aims to prevent the exploitation of animals, both terrestrial and aquatic, and ensure their conservation and sustainable management. The act also regulates hunting, poaching, and trade of wildlife and their products.
Year of Implementation:
The Wildlife Protection Act was implemented in India in 1972.
Key provisions of the Wildlife Protection Act:
- The act prohibits the hunting, poaching, and capturing of certain species of animals, including tigers, elephants, rhinoceros, and other endangered species.
- It establishes protected areas such as national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and conservation reserves for the preservation of wildlife and their habitats.
- The act regulates the possession, sale, and transportation of wildlife and their products through a licensing system.
- It empowers the government to declare any area as a protected area and restrict or regulate human activities within that area.
- The act provides for the appointment of wildlife wardens and the establishment of wildlife crime control bureaus to enforce the law and combat wildlife crimes.
- It imposes strict penalties and punishments, including imprisonment and fines, for offenses under the act.
Impact of the Wildlife Protection Act:
- The act has played a significant role in the conservation and protection of endangered species in India.
- It has helped in increasing the population of various species, such as tigers, which were once on the brink of extinction.
- The act has raised awareness among the general public about the importance of wildlife conservation and the need to protect the natural heritage of the country.
Overall, the Wildlife Protection Act has been instrumental in safeguarding the rich biodiversity of India and ensuring the sustainable management of its wildlife resources.

Tropical deciduous is most widespread vegetation in India occurring in Deccan plateau and most of northeastern part and also in lower hills of Himalayas .

Answer:

• Tropical rainforests require a significant amount of rainfall to thrive.


• The ideal amount of rainfall for tropical rainforests is around 200 cm per year.


• This is because the high levels of precipitation help create a humid and moist environment, which is necessary for the growth of diverse plant and animal life.


• Regions that receive less than 200 cm of rainfall may still support rainforests, but they may have less biodiversity and a different composition of species.


• Rainforests in areas with rainfall below 150 cm or 100 cm may be classified as dry or seasonal rainforests, where the vegetation and ecosystem adaptations differ.


• Areas with rainfall below 70 cm are generally not suitable for rainforest growth.

Therefore, option A, 200 cm of rainfall, is the most suitable choice for tropical rainforest growth.

Answer:
The evergreen forests in India are found primarily in the southern and northeastern regions of the country. Among the given options, only Assam is known to have evergreen forests. Here is a detailed explanation:
Assam:
- Assam, located in the northeastern part of India, is known for its lush greenery and abundant forests.
- The state is home to various types of forests, including tropical evergreen forests.
- These evergreen forests are characterized by dense vegetation, tall trees, and a wide variety of plant species.
- The high rainfall and favorable climatic conditions in Assam support the growth of these forests.
Rajasthan:
- Rajasthan, located in northwestern India, is a desert state with arid and dry conditions.
- It is not suitable for the growth of evergreen forests due to the lack of rainfall and water scarcity.
Orissa:
- Odisha (formerly known as Orissa), located in eastern India, has diverse geographical features, including forests.
- However, the state primarily consists of deciduous forests and not evergreen forests.
Uttar Pradesh:
- Uttar Pradesh, located in northern India, has a mix of various forest types, including tropical dry deciduous forests, moist deciduous forests, and subtropical pine forests.
- Evergreen forests are not found in Uttar Pradesh.
In conclusion, among the given options, the only part of India where evergreen forests are found is Assam.

Factors determining the distribution of Ebony and Rosewood trees:

To determine the areas where ebony and rosewood trees are found, we need to consider the amount of rainfall in those regions. Both ebony and rosewood trees thrive in specific rainfall conditions. Let's analyze the rainfall requirements for these trees:

1. Ebony Trees:

• Ebony trees are typically found in areas with high rainfall.


• These trees prefer a consistently moist environment.


• They require ample water supply to grow and thrive.

2. Rosewood Trees:

• Rosewood trees also prefer regions with a significant amount of rainfall.


• They can tolerate slightly drier conditions compared to ebony trees, but still require a substantial amount of moisture.


• Insufficient rainfall can negatively impact the growth and health of rosewood trees.

Relationship between Ebony and Rosewood trees and rainfall:

Based on the rainfall requirements of ebony and rosewood trees, we can conclude that:

Answer: A - More than 200 cm

Ebony and rosewood trees are found in areas with annual rainfall exceeding 200 cm. These areas provide the necessary moisture for the healthy growth and development of these tree species.

It is important to note that while both ebony and rosewood trees thrive in regions with high rainfall, they may have specific preferences for soil types, temperature ranges, and other ecological factors. However, the primary factor determining their distribution is the amount of rainfall in the region.

These forests are restricted to heavy rainfall areas of the Western Ghats and the island groups of Lakshadweep, Andaman and Nicobar,upper parts of Assam and Tamil Nadu coast.

Sarpagandha is best known for treating high blood pressure, it is used in Indian folk medicine as a remedy for mental disorders too. The role of reserpine in reducing blood pressure can be described as follows. Dopamine, epinephrine (adrenaline), and noradrenaline are a group of hormones (neurotransmitters) known collectively as catecholamines. These are produced in the adrenal glands and are released into the bloodstream in response to physical or emotional stress. Noradrenaline constricts the blood vessels increasing the blood pressure and adrenaline increases the heart rate and metabolism.

Vegetation Types:
- Tundra
- Tidal
- Himalayan
- Tropical evergreen
Explanation:
- Rubber belongs to the vegetation type of tropical evergreen.
- Tropical evergreen forests are found in regions near the equator, characterized by high rainfall and constant high temperatures.
- Rubber trees (Hevea brasiliensis) thrive in these conditions and are commonly found in tropical evergreen forests.
- Rubber trees are known for their ability to produce latex, which is used to make rubber.
- These forests are dense and diverse, with a wide variety of plant and animal species.
- Other common vegetation found in tropical evergreen forests include ferns, orchids, and various types of tall trees.
- The dense canopy of these forests provides a suitable environment for the growth of rubber trees.
Conclusion:
- Rubber belongs to the vegetation type of tropical evergreen due to its preference for high rainfall and constant high temperatures, which are characteristic of this type of vegetation.

The natural habitat of the Indian lion is the Gir forest in Gujarat. Here is a detailed explanation:
Indian Lion Habitat
- The Indian lion, also known as the Asiatic lion or the Persian lion, is found in the Gir forest and surrounding areas in Gujarat, India.
- This is the only natural habitat of the Indian lion in the world, making it an important conservation area.
- The Gir forest is a protected area that covers approximately 1,412 square kilometers and is known for its dry deciduous forest and open grasslands.
Characteristics of Gir Forest
- The Gir forest is characterized by its mix of dry deciduous forest, thorny vegetation, and open grasslands.
- It has a diverse ecosystem that supports a wide variety of flora and fauna.
- The forest is dominated by teak trees and other species like acacia, flame of the forest, and banyan trees.
Conservation Efforts
- The Indian lion was once on the brink of extinction, with only a few dozen individuals left in the wild.
- Thanks to dedicated conservation efforts, the population has increased over the years, but it is still considered endangered.
- The Gir forest and surrounding areas have been declared as a protected area and a national park to ensure the survival of the Indian lion.
In conclusion, the natural habitat of the Indian lion is the Gir forest in Gujarat, India. This unique ecosystem supports the survival of this endangered species and serves as an important conservation area.

Trees in a thorn forest are:
There are four options given: A, B, C, D. The correct answer is C: Scattered.
Explanation:
Thorn forests are characterized by their dry and arid conditions, which are often found in regions with low rainfall. In such environments, the trees have adapted to survive with limited water resources. Here's why the correct answer is C:
Scattered:
- Trees in a thorn forest are typically found scattered throughout the landscape.
- They are not densely packed together like in a forest with a higher water supply.
- The spacing between the trees allows them to maximize their access to limited water and nutrients.
- This adaptation helps the trees avoid competition for resources and increases their chances of survival in the arid conditions.
Tall:
- While some trees in a thorn forest may grow tall, it is not a defining characteristic of this type of ecosystem.
- The lack of abundant water and nutrients may limit the height that trees can reach.
- Additionally, the scattered distribution of trees may result in varying heights across the landscape.
Dense:
- Thorn forests are not known for their dense tree cover.
- The dry and arid conditions make it challenging for trees to grow close together.
- The lack of water and nutrients restricts the growth and density of vegetation in these ecosystems.
None of these:
- This option is incorrect as the scattered distribution of trees is indeed a characteristic of thorn forests.
In conclusion, trees in a thorn forest are scattered rather than tall or dense. This adaptation allows them to survive in dry and arid conditions by maximizing their access to limited resources.

The montane forest is found in mountains, generally which are in the area of moderate elevation. 

These are reffered by different names at different heights. 

These are classified as Wet Temperate forests between 1000 and 2000 meters, Temperate forest between 1500 m - 3000 m and Alpine Forest at height more than 3600 meters. 

In Alpine Forest, Silver fir is found and rainfall here is less than 100 cm.

Answer:
The Yak (ox) and the Bharal are found in the region of Ladakh, which is located in Jammu and Kashmir. Here is a detailed explanation:
1. Introduction:
The Yak and the Bharal are two distinct animals that are found in the region of Ladakh.
2. The Yak:
- The Yak, also known as the domesticated ox, is a large bovine animal.
- It is primarily found in the high-altitude regions of the Himalayas, including Ladakh.
- Yaks are well-adapted to the harsh climate of Ladakh, with their thick fur and strong bodies.
- They are often used by the local people for transportation and as pack animals.
3. The Bharal:
- The Bharal, also known as the blue sheep, is a species of sheep found in the high-altitude mountainous regions of Ladakh.
- They are known for their distinctive bluish-gray coloration and curved horns.
- Bharals are well-adapted to the rugged terrain of Ladakh and can be found grazing on steep slopes and rocky cliffs.
4. Ladakh:
- Ladakh is a region located in the northern part of the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir.
- It is known for its high-altitude desert landscape and extreme weather conditions.
- The region is sparsely populated and is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including the Yak and the Bharal.
- Ladakh provides a suitable habitat for these animals due to its cold climate and availability of grazing areas.
In conclusion, the Yak and the Bharal are found in the region of Ladakh, which is located in Jammu and Kashmir. These animals have adapted to the harsh climate and rugged terrain of Ladakh, making it their natural habitat.

A biome is a community of plants and animals that have common characteristics for the environment they exist in. They can be found over a range of continents. Biomes are distinct biological communities that have formed in response to a shared physical climate

The animal that lives in the swampy and marshy lands of Assam and West Bengal is the One-horned Rhino.
Here is a detailed explanation:
Explanation:
- The One-horned Rhino, also known as the Indian Rhinoceros, is a large herbivorous mammal.
- It is found in the swampy and marshy grasslands of Assam and West Bengal in India.
- The grasslands and wetlands of Assam and West Bengal provide an ideal habitat for the One-horned Rhino, as they offer abundant food and water sources.
- These regions have a mix of tall grasses, reeds, and water bodies like rivers and lakes, which are essential for the survival of the One-horned Rhino.
- The One-horned Rhino is well-adapted to its marshy environment. Its large size and tough skin protect it from potential threats, while its single horn is used for defense and digging up food.
- The swampy and marshy lands of Assam and West Bengal are home to several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, such as Kaziranga National Park and Manas National Park, where conservation efforts are in place to protect the One-horned Rhino and its habitat.
- The One-horned Rhino is an endangered species, and these protected areas play a crucial role in its conservation.
In conclusion, the One-horned Rhino is the animal that lives in the swampy and marshy lands of Assam and West Bengal.

Answer:
Introduction:
In this question, we are asked to identify the tree that is not important in a tropical rainforest. Let's analyze each option to determine the correct answer.
Analysis:
The options given are:
A: Ebony
B: Rosewood
C: Mahogany
D: Sandalwood
Explanation:
- Ebony, rosewood, mahogany, and sandalwood are all valuable tree species found in tropical rainforests. They are known for their commercial value and are highly sought after for their wood.
- Ebony is a dense and durable wood used for making furniture, musical instruments, and decorative items.
- Rosewood is known for its unique grain patterns and is often used in the production of high-quality furniture and musical instruments.
- Mahogany is highly prized for its reddish-brown color and is commonly used in the manufacturing of furniture, cabinetry, and flooring.
- Sandalwood is a fragrant wood that is used in the production of incense, perfumes, and cosmetics.
Conclusion:
Based on the information provided, all of the given tree species (Ebony, Rosewood, Mahogany, and Sandalwood) are important in tropical rainforests. Therefore, the correct answer is D: Sandalwood.

The elephants are found in the hot-wet forests of Assam and Karnataka.
Explanation:
The distribution of elephants is mainly determined by their habitat preferences, which include hot-wet forests. Here is a detailed explanation of where elephants are found:
1. Assam:
- Assam, located in northeastern India, is known for its extensive hot-wet forests.
- The state is home to several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, such as Kaziranga National Park, Manas National Park, and Nameri National Park, which provide suitable habitats for elephants.
- Assam has a significant population of Asian elephants, and the forests here support their survival and breeding.
2. Karnataka:
- Karnataka, a state in southern India, also has hot-wet forests that serve as important elephant habitats.
- The Western Ghats region of Karnataka, including places like Bandipur National Park, Nagarahole National Park, and Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, is known for its elephant populations.
- These forests provide the elephants with ample food, water, and shelter, allowing them to thrive.
It is important to note that while elephants are found in Assam and Karnataka, they can also be found in other regions of India and even in other countries in Asia and Africa. However, the specific question asked about the hot-wet forests, and the answer is Assam and Karnataka.

Tropical forests are discovered in the westward slopes of the western ghats. They can be also discovered in mountain ranges of Jaintia and Khasi.

Answer:
To determine which state does not have tropical deciduous forests, let's analyze each option:
Jharkhand:
- Jharkhand is a state located in eastern India.
- It is known for its rich biodiversity and diverse forest cover.
- Jharkhand has tropical deciduous forests, so it is not the correct answer.
Western Orissa:
- Western Orissa is a region in Odisha state, located in eastern India.
- Odisha is known for its dense forests and wildlife.
- Western Orissa has tropical deciduous forests, so it is not the correct answer.
Chhattisgarh:
- Chhattisgarh is a state located in central India.
- It is known for its abundant natural resources and forest cover.
- Chhattisgarh has tropical deciduous forests, so it is not the correct answer.
Rajasthan:
- Rajasthan is a state located in western India.
- It is known for its arid and desert landscapes.
- Rajasthan does not have tropical deciduous forests, making it the correct answer.
Therefore, the state that does not have tropical deciduous forests is Rajasthan.

The correct option is A.
Dachigam National Park is located 22 kilometers from Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir. It covers an area of 500 km².

Types of plant species in India:
There are numerous plant species found in India, contributing to its rich biodiversity. The exact number of plant species can vary depending on various factors, including ongoing research and discoveries. However, based on current knowledge and estimates, India is home to approximately 47,000 types of plant species.
Explanation:
To determine the number of plant species in India, it is important to consider the following points:
1. Biodiversity in India: India is one of the world's mega-diverse countries, known for its vast range of flora and fauna. The country encompasses diverse climatic conditions, geographical features, and ecosystems, which support a wide array of plant species.
2. Flora of India: The Flora of India is a comprehensive database that provides information on the plant species found in the country. It is a collaborative effort between various institutions and researchers to document and classify the plant species.
3. Research and Discoveries: The number of plant species in India is not fixed and can change over time. Ongoing research, field studies, and new discoveries contribute to the continuous updating of the plant species list.
4. Estimated Number: Based on the available data, it is estimated that there are about 47,000 types of plant species in India. However, this number is subject to change as new species are discovered or taxonomic classifications are revised.
In conclusion, India is a biodiversity hotspot with a wide variety of plant species. While the exact number of plant species may vary, the estimated count is around 47,000, showcasing the country's rich floral diversity.

Southern part of the Himalayas is covered with dense forests

• The Himalayan southern slopes are where we can find dense vegetation. This is because the southern slope receives very heavy rainfall resulting in the growth of dense and thick forests within this region.

• The Himalayan southern slopes get extremely heavy rainfall because of the southwest monsoon winds that travel west alongside the southern slopes.

• Therefore, the southern slopes of the Himalayan region are covered with dense and thick vegetation as compared to slopes of Himalayas Tropical and subtropical broadleaf forests are usually found at the mountain base.

• Due to the difference in weather, topography, rainfall, and soils these forests vary from northern wet tropical to dry tropical evergreen forests. With further increase in elevation, you can find temperate broadleaf mixed forests .

Answer:
Introduction:
In tropical rainforests, various types of trees can be found. These trees are adapted to the warm and humid climate of the rainforest, and they play a crucial role in maintaining the diverse ecosystem of these regions. Among the given options, the tree "Mahogany" is commonly found in tropical rainforests.
Explanation:
The following are the details about the trees mentioned in the options and their presence in tropical rainforests:
1. Mahogany:
- Mahogany trees are large, deciduous trees that are native to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America, as well as some parts of Africa.
- They are known for their dark reddish-brown wood, which is highly valued for its durability and beauty.
- Mahogany trees provide habitat and food for a variety of rainforest animals, and they also contribute to the overall biodiversity of the ecosystem.
2. Teak:
- Teak trees are native to tropical regions, including Southeast Asia and the Indian subcontinent.
- While they are not typically found in tropical rainforests, they are often cultivated in plantations due to their highly durable wood, which is used in various industries.
3. Sal:
- Sal trees, also known as Shorea robusta, are found in the Indian subcontinent, particularly in the tropical forests of Nepal, India, and Bhutan.
- While these trees are not specifically classified as tropical rainforest trees, they do thrive in the warm and humid conditions of the region.
4. Peepal:
- Peepal trees, also known as Ficus religiosa, are native to the Indian subcontinent and can be found in various types of forests, including tropical rainforests.
- These trees are considered sacred in many cultures and are often found near temples and religious sites.
Conclusion:
Among the given options, the tree "Mahogany" is commonly found in tropical rainforests. However, it is important to note that tropical rainforests are incredibly diverse ecosystems with a wide range of tree species, and the presence of specific trees may vary depending on the region.

Tropical Deciduous Forests are the most predominant type of vegetation in India. Also called the monsoon forests, they are found in the regions receiving rainfall between 200 cm and 70 cm.

Answer:
The Biosphere Reserve of India is Nilgiri. Here is a detailed explanation of why Nilgiri is the correct answer:
What is a Biosphere Reserve?
A biosphere reserve is an area that encompasses diverse ecosystems and promotes conservation and sustainable development. It is designated by the UNESCO's Man and the Biosphere (MAB) program.
The Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve:
1. The Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve is located in the Western Ghats of India, spanning the states of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka.
2. It was established in 1986 and was the first biosphere reserve in India to be included in the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves.
3. The reserve covers an area of about 5,520 square kilometers.
4. It is home to several important wildlife species, including the Nilgiri tahr, Bengal tiger, Indian elephant, and many endemic bird species.
5. The region is known for its rich biodiversity, with a large number of plant and animal species found nowhere else in the world.
6. The Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve also includes several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, such as Mudumalai National Park, Silent Valley National Park, and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.
Why the other options are incorrect:
- Gir: Gir National Park in Gujarat is known for its population of Asiatic lions, but it is not a biosphere reserve.
- Kanheri: Kanheri Caves in Maharashtra is a historical site and Buddhist monastery, but it is not a biosphere reserve.
- None of these: This option is incorrect because the correct answer is Nilgiri.
Therefore, the correct answer to the question is Nilgiri.

Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary is the nest of migrating flamingos. It is positioned in the Great Rann of Kutch, Gujarat in India, it was acknowledged as a sanctuary of the largest Wildlife Sanctuary in India on February 1986 that houses the largest seasonal saline wetlands.

Answer:
The forest that is affected by tides in coastal areas is the Mangroves forest.
Explanation:
Mangroves are unique coastal forests that are found in tropical and subtropical regions. They are specifically adapted to survive in saline water environments, where they experience the regular rise and fall of tides.
Here is a detailed explanation of why mangroves are affected by tides in coastal areas:
1. Adaptations to saline water:
- Mangroves have specialized root systems called pneumatophores that allow them to breathe in oxygen even when submerged in water during high tide.
- They have salt-filtering mechanisms that enable them to remove excess salt from the water they absorb, thus preventing salt buildup in their tissues.
2. Growth in intertidal zones:
- Mangroves typically grow in the intertidal zones, which are the areas between the high and low tide marks.
- As the tides rise and fall, mangroves experience the alternating periods of being submerged and exposed to air.
3. Benefits of tidal influence:
- The regular tidal flow brings in nutrients and sediments from the sea, which enriches the soil in mangrove forests.
- The rise and fall of tides also help in dispersing mangrove propagules (seeds) and facilitate their colonization in new areas.
4. Protection against coastal erosion:
- The dense network of mangrove roots helps in stabilizing the coastal soil, reducing the impact of waves and currents, and preventing coastal erosion.
In conclusion, mangroves are uniquely adapted to thrive in coastal areas where they are affected by the regular ebb and flow of tides. They play a crucial role in coastal ecosystems by providing habitat for diverse wildlife, contributing to carbon sequestration, and protecting coastlines from erosion and storm surges.

Dachigam National Park is located 22 kilometers from Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir. It covers an area of 141 km square. The name of the park literally stands for " ten villages" which could be in memory of ten villages that were relocated for its formation.