Natural Vegetation and Wildlife in India
India stands out as one of the 12 megabiodiverse countries, showcasing over 47,000 species of plants and about 90,000 animal species. This section examines key vegetation types in India:
- Tropical Evergreen Forests: These exist in high rainfall areas, featuring tall trees and a plethora of biodiversity, including significant species like rubber and mahogany.
- Tropical Deciduous Forests: Known as monsoon forests, these are widespread and shed leaves during the dry season. They contain economically important species such as teak and sal.
- Thorn Forests and Scrubs: Characterized by limited rainfall, they support resilient species like acacia and euphorbia.
- Montane Forests: Found in mountainous regions, these forests change with altitude, featuring diverse plant life from conifers to alpine vegetation.
- Mangrove Forests: Located in coastal regions, these forests are crucial for protecting shorelines and supporting unique wildlife like the Royal Bengal Tiger.
Furthermore, the section emphasizes the importance of conserving biodiversity as many species face threats from human activities such as habitat destruction, pollution, and invasive species, while government initiatives like wildlife protection acts and biosphere reserves aim to safeguard these vital ecosystems.