Natural Vegetation and Wildlife

Introduction to Natural Vegetation

Natural vegetation refers to plant communities that grow naturally without human interference. India's vegetation varies with climate, soil, and topography.

Question: What factors determine natural vegetation? Answer: Temperature, rainfall, soil type, altitude, and slope determine the type of natural vegetation in a region.

Types of Vegetation in India

Major Vegetation Types

Forest Types

Tropical Evergreen Forests

• Dense, multilayered canopy
• Trees: Ebony, Mahogany, Rosewood
• High biodiversity
• Found in areas with heavy rainfall

Tropical Deciduous Forests

• Also called monsoon forests
• Trees shed leaves in dry season
• Trees: Teak, Sal, Sandalwood
• Most widespread forest type in India

Tropical Thorn Forests

• Adapted to dry conditions
• Trees: Babul, Kikar, Khair
• Small leaves, thorns to reduce water loss
• Found in arid and semi-arid regions

Wildlife in India

Biodiversity

India is one of the 12 mega-biodiversity countries with rich flora and fauna.

Major Wildlife Species

Conservation of Forest and Wildlife

Need for Conservation

• Prevent extinction of species
• Maintain ecological balance
• Preserve biodiversity
• Protect natural habitats

Conservation Methods

• In-situ conservation: National parks, wildlife sanctuaries
• Ex-situ conservation: Zoos, botanical gardens
• Community participation: Chipko movement, Joint Forest Management
• Legal protection: Wildlife Protection Act, Forest Conservation Act

Important National Parks and Sanctuaries

Famous National Parks