Natural Vegetation and Wildlife Class 9 Geography Chapter 5 MCQs, Question Answers

NCERT Solutions for Class 9 Geography Chapter 5 Natural Vegetation and Wildlife

Natural Vegetation and Wildlife Class 9 – Given in this post is NCERT Solutions Class 9 Geography Chapter 5 Natural Vegetation and Wildlife Important Question Answers. The important questions we have compiled will help the students to brush up on their knowledge about the subject. Students can practice Class 9 Geography important questions to understand the subject better and improve their performance in the board exam. The NCERT Solutions Class 9 Social Science (Geography) provided here will also give students an idea about how to write the answers.
 

• CBSE Class 9 SST MCQs
• CBSE Class 9 Social Science Important Questions

 

Chapter 5 Natural Vegetation and Wildlife MCQ Based Questions

 

Q1 To which one of the following types of vegetation does rubber belong to? (NCERT QUESTION)

A Tundra 

B Himalayan 

C Tidal 

D Tropical Evergreen 

Ans D Tropical Evergreen 

 

Q2 Cinchona trees are found in the areas of rainfall more than (NCERT QUESTION)

A 100 cm 

B 70 cm 

C 50 cm

D less than 50 cm 

Ans A 100 cm 

 

Q3 In which of the following states is the Simlipal bio-reserve located? (NCERT QUESTION)

A Punjab 

B Delhi 

C Odisha 

D West Bengal 

Ans C Odisha 

 

Q4 Which one of the following bio-reserves of India is not included in the world network of bio reserves? (NCERT QUESTION)

A Manas

B Gulf of Mannar 

C Nilgiri 

D Nanda Devi 

Ans A Manas

 

Q8 Which Indian states have maximum and minimum forest cover area?

A Arunachal Pradesh and Haryana

B Himachal Pradesh and Haryana

C Tripura and Rajasthan

D Manipur and Gujarat

Ans A Arunachal Pradesh and Haryana

 

Q9 Coniferous forests have tall trees with leaves as

A Conical shape

B circular

C Broad

D All the above

Ans A Conical shape

 

Q10 Which of the following soils support cactus and thorny bushes?

A Alluvial soils

B Black soils

C Red soils

D Sandy soils

Ans D Sandy soils

 

Related – Natural Vegetation and Wildlife MCQs Question Answers 

 

Q11 Which one of the following is a wildlife sanctuary for Bears?

A Jim Corbett

B Dachigam

C Manas

D Rajaji National Park

Ans B Dachigam

 

Q12 One step taken by the Indian Government to conserve the forest is the setting of the Forest Research Institute at:

A Dehradun

B Patlidun

C Delhi

D Uttar Pradesh

Ans A Dehradun

 

Q13 Which of the following areas is the habitat for camels?

A Thar Desert

B Northern Plains

C Himalayas

D Andaman & Nicobar Islands

Ans A Thar Desert

 

Q14 Rats, mice, rabbits, fox, wolf, tiger, lion, wild ass, horses and camels are mostly found in Mountain forests.

A False

B True

Ans A False

 

Q15 From the point of view of natural vegetation and wildlife, India belongs to which of the following categories?

A One of the 12 mega biodiversity countries of the world

B The richest wildlife zone in the world

C The country with the greatest forest cover

D A country lacking in biodiversity cover

Ans A One of the 12 mega biodiversity countries of the world

 

Q16 Tropical deciduous in India is more commonly known as:

A Monsoon forest

B Mangrove forest

C Thorn forest

D None of these

Ans A Monsoon forest

 

Q17 The total number of tiger reserves in India is

A 20

B 8

C 50

D 40

Ans C 50

 

Q18 What is the position of India in the mega biodiversity countries in the world?

A One of the 20 mega biodiversity countries in the world

B One of the 10 mega biodiversity countries in the world

C One of the 12 mega biodiversity countries in the world

D None of the above

Ans. C One of the 12 mega biodiversity countries in the world

 

Q19 Which of the following states do not have Tropical deciduous forests?

A Jharkhand

B Western Orissa

C Chhattisgarh

D Rajasthan

Ans D Rajasthan

 

Q20 Which forest is also known as Monsoon forest?

A Tropical Deciduous

B Rain forest

C Mangrove forest

D Thorn forest

Ans A Tropical Deciduous

 

Q21 in which of the following regions the vegetation cover is natural in the real sense.

A Northern Plains

B The Himalayas

C Coastal areas

D Andaman and Nicobar islands

Ans B The Himalayas

 

Q22 Which of the following statements is correct about natural vegetation?

A A plant community that is grown in the fields by the farmers

B A plant community that is grown at home

C A plant community which has grown naturally without human aid and has been left undisturbed by humans for a long time

D A plant community which has grown with human aid but left undisturbed for a long time

Ans C A plant community which has grown naturally without human aid and has been left undisturbed by humans for a long time

 

Q23 Which of the following bio-reserves of India is/are included in the world network of the biosphere?

1 Manas

2 Gulf of Mannar 

3 Dihang-Dibang

4 Nanda Devi

A only 2, 3 and 4

B only 3

C 2 and 4

D All 1, 3 and 4

Ans A only 2, 3 and 4

 

Q24 India has a wide variety of vegetation due to its varied __________

A Regional variation

B Climatic conditions

C  Physical Conditions

D  All the above

Ans B Climatic conditions

 

Q25 Which of the following animals, is the most majestic animal among the mammals.

A Horse

B Lion

C Elephant

D Tiger

Ans C Elephant

 

Q26 Moist Tropical deciduous forests are more prominent in the eastern and central parts of India because these areas experience 100 to 200 cm of annual rainfall.

A True

B False

Ans A True

 

Q27 Coniferous trees are found at an altitude of

A 1500 m-3000 m

B 1000 m-1500 m

C 3500 m-4000 m

D All the above

Ans A 1500 m-3000 m

 

Q28 In the Ganga Brahmaputra delta, Sundari trees are found which provide durable hard timber.

A True

B False

Ans A True

 

Q29 In India, almost the entire rainfall is brought in by the advancing south-west monsoon (June to September) and retreating northeast monsoons.

A True

B False

Ans A True

 

Q30 Silver fur is found in the following type of vegetation zone.

A Mangrove forests

B Thorn forests

C Montane forests

D Deciduous forests

Ans C Montane forests

 

Q31 Where are the Sunderbans located?

A West Bengal

B Odisha

C Andhra Pradesh

D None of these

Ans A West Bengal

 

Q32 Which of the following vegetations is supported by wet, marshy deltaic soils?

A Mangrove forests

B Evergreen forests

C Montane forests

D Deciduous forests

Ans A Mangrove forests

 

Q33 Where in India do flamingos migrate to nest in large numbers?

A Thar

B Rann of Kutch

C Coastal areas

D Himalayas

Ans B Rann of Kutch

 

Q34 The Sunderbans derived their name because

A The main tree is Sundari

B They are beautiful

C They are located in Sunder Nagar

D All the above

Ans A The main tree is Sundari

 

1 Mark Questions

 

Q1 What position does India occupy in the world with regards to plant diversity? 

Ans Tenth place. 

 

Q2 What position in Asia does India hold in plant diversity? 

Ans Fourth place. 

 

Q3 What is the number of flowering plants in India? 

Ans 15,000 flowering plants. 

 

Q4 What percentage of flowering plants does India contribute to the world’s total? 

Ans 6%. 

 

Q5 What is Natural Vegetation? 

Ans Natural vegetation refers to the plants which have grown naturally without human aid and have been left undisturbed by humans for a long time. 

 

Q6 Give another name for natural vegetation. 

Ans Virgin vegetation 

 

Q7 Why are cultivated crops, fruits and vegetables not considered as natural vegetation? 

Ans They are grown with the help of man. 

 

Q8 What is the difference between flora and fauna? 

Ans Flora refers to the plants of a particular region or period. The species of animals are referred to as fauna. 

 

Q9 Why is there a great diversity in flora and fauna? 

Ans Differences in land, soil and climate cause a great diversity in the flora and fauna of a region. 

 

Q10 What is the main occupation of people where land is fertile and level? 

Ans Agriculture. 

 

Q11 Which occupation can be carried on in grasslands and woodlands? 

Ans Cattle grazing. 

 

Q12 Why do trees grow faster in summer? 

Ans Due to longer duration of sunlight. 

 

Q13 Why are the southern slopes of the Himalayas covered with thicker vegetation as compared to northern slopes? 

Ans The southern slopes of the Himalayas get direct sunlight while the northern slopes receive indirect rays or oblique rays. 

 

Q14 Name the two winds which cause rainfall in the major part of the Indian subcontinent. 

Ans South West Monsoons in Summer. North East Monsoons in Winter. 

 

Q15 Why do the windward or western slopes of the Western Ghats have denser vegetation than the eastern or leeward slopes? 

Ans Rainfall is heavier on the windward or western slopes than the eastern or leeward slope. 

 

Q16 Which areas in India have been untouched by man or have not been modified? 

Ans Inaccessible regions of the Himalayas and the hilly region of Central India and the marusthali. 

 

Q17 According to the Indian State of Forest Report 2011, what is the percentage of forest cover in India. 

Ans 21.05%. 

 

Q18 How do human beings influence the ecology of a region? 

Ans Human beings utilise the vegetation and wildlife. They cut the trees for their own benefit and kill the animals for various purposes. The ecological balance is disturbed. 

 

Q19 What is a biome? 

Ans A very large ecosystem on land having distinct types of vegetation and animal life is called a biome. 

 

Q20 How are biomes identified? 

Ans Biomes are identified on the basis of plants. 

 

Q21 What is the other name of Tropical Rainforests? 

Ans These forests are also known as the Tropical Evergreen Forests. 

 

Q22 Name two regions, one in the north of the Tropic of Cancer and one in the south of the Tropic of Cancer, where Tropical Evergreen Forests are found. 

Ans North – Northern parts of Assam South – Windward slopes of the Western Ghats. 

 

Q23 Name any four commercially important trees of the Evergreen Forests. 

Ans Ebony, mahogany, rosewood and rubber. 

 

Q24 For what purpose did the people in the forests use bamboo? 

Ans The people in the forests used bamboo for commercial purposes especially for the construction of houses and for carrying the water from the higher regions of heavy rainfall to the lower areas. 

 

Q25 Name any four common animals found in the Tropical Evergreen Forests? 

Ans Elephants, monkeys, rhinoceros and snakes. 

 

Q26 Name the most widespread forests of India. By what other name are they also known as? 

Ans Tropical Deciduous Forests. These forests are also known as Monsoon Forests. 

 

Q27 What are the subdivisions of the Tropical Deciduous Forests? 

Ans Dry Deciduous – (70-100 cm of rain) Wet Deciduous – (100-200 cm of rain) 

 

Q28 Why are thorny trees and shrubs found in Gujarat and Rajasthan? 

Ans Rainfall is less than 70 cm 

 

Q29 When was the Wildlife Protection Act implemented in India? 

Ans 1972. 

 

Q30 Name the natural habitat of the Indian lion. 

Ans Gir forest in Gujarat.

 

Q31 Name any two bird sanctuaries in India. 

Ans Vedanthangal Ranganathittu 

 

Q32 Name any three common animals each of thorn forests and the mangrove forests found in India. 

Ans The wild ass, camels and horses are the common animals of the thorn forest. Tigers, crocodiles and gharials are found in coastal areas where mangrove forests exist. 

 

Q33 How many species of animals and birds does India have? 

Ans India has approximately 90,000 of animal species and 2,000 species of birds. 

 

Q34 Name any three animals found in rivers, lakes and the coastal areas of India. 

Ans Turtles, crocodiles and gharials. 

 

Q35 Name any three animals which live in the Himalayas due to its cold climate. 

Ans The yak lives in Ladakh’s freezing high altitudes. The shaggy horned wild ox and the Tibetan antelope also live in the cold regions of Himalayas. 

 

Q36 Differentiate between endemic and exotic plants. 

Ans The Virgin vegetation which is purely Indian is known as endemic, while those plants which have come from outside India are known as exotic plants. 

 

Q37 How does the vegetation change with the change in the soil? 

Ans Different types of soils have different characteristics and minerals, therefore it is suited to those plants which can grow well under those conditions. 

 

Q38 What type of vegetation is supported by the following soils? 

Ans Sandy soils of the desert – cactus and thorny bushes Marshy or deltaic soils – mangroves Hill soils – conical trees or coniferous trees 

 

Assertion-reason based questions:

 

Q1 Assertion (A): The tropical rainforests are mostly evergreen. 

Reason (R): The regions of tropical rainforests get abundant rainfall and have low temperatures throughout the region.

Options: 

1. Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A. 
2. Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A. 
3. A is true but R is false. 
4. A is false but R is true.

Ans C. A is true but R is false. 

A tropical rainforest occurs roughly within the latitude 28 degrees north or south of the equator (in the equatorial zone between the Tropic of Cancer and Tropic of Capricorn). These forests experience high average temperatures and a significant amount of rainfall.

 

Q2 Assertion (A): The Himalayan ranges show change in vegetation from tropical to tundra.

Reason (R): In the mountainous areas with an increase in altitude, there is a corresponding decrease in temperature, which leads to a change in the vegetation types.

Options: 

1. Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A. 
2. Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A. 
3. A is true but R is false. 
4. A is false but R is true.

Ans A. Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.

With increase in altitude there is decrease in temperature and rainfall. This is why Himalays have varied vegetation, with tropical dense forest to Tundra forest in which growth is hindered by lower temperatures. On Himalayan slopes above the height of 915 mt the fall in temperature affects the type of vegetation and its growth.

 

Q3 Assertion (A): There is no diversity in the climate in regions which are situated on coastal areas.

Reason (R): Coastal places like Mumbai in Kolkata experience moderate climate. They are neither too hot nor too cold. 

Options: 

1. Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A. 
2. Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A. 
3. A is true but R is false. 
4. A is false but R is true.

Ans B. Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A. 

 

Q4 Assertion (A): India has a wide range of natural vegetation. 

Reason (R): The grass is shrubs and trees which grow on their own without interference or help from human beings are called natural vegetation.

Options: 

1. Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A. 
2. Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A. 
3. A is true but R is false. 
4. A is false but R is true.

Ans B. Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A.

 

Q5 Assertion (A): Forest is the natural habitat for wildlife. 

Reason (R): Natural vegetation has been destroyed to a large extent because of reckless cutting of trees, which has caused for animals to be disposed of in their natural habitat.

Options: 

1. Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A. 
2. Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A. 
3. A is true but R is false. 
4. A is false but R is true.

Ans B. Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A. 

 

Q6 Assertion (A): There is a wide variety of animals in our country. 

Reason (R): Gir Forest in Gujarat is home of Asiatic lions, elephants and one horned rhinoceros roam in the Forest of Kerala.

Options: 

1. Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A. 
2. Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A. 
3. A is true but R is false. 
4. A is false but R is true.

Ans C. A is true but R is false.

 

Q7 Assertion (A): India is equally rich in bird life. 

Reason (R): Apart from Peacock, which is India’s national bird, other common birds are parrots, pigeons, Maina, geese, bulbul and dogs. There are several bird centuries which have been created to give birds a natural habitat.

Options:

1. Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A. 
2. Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A. 
3. A is true but R is false. 
4. A is false but R is true.

Ans A. Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.

 

Q8 Assertion (A): In order to protect flora and fauna, many national parks, sanctuaries and biosphere reserves have been set up.

Reason (R): Project Tiger and Project Elephant are examples of initiative taken by the government to protect the flora and fauna.

Options:

1. Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A. 
2. Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A. 
3. A is true but R is false. 
4. A is false but R is true.

Ans A. Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A. 

 

Q9 Assertion (A): Tropical rainforest is a  name given for regions which receive heavy rainfall. 

Reason(R): Mahogany, Ebony and rosewood are examples of trees found in tropical rainforests.

Options: 

1. Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A. 
2. Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A. 
3. A is true but R is false. 
4. A is false but R is true.

Ans A. Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.

 

Q10 Assertion (A): Most of the trees found in Mountaineer region are conical in shape. 

Reason(R): These trees are called coniferous trees, for example sal, teek, peepal.

Options: 

1. Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A. 
2. Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A. 
3. A is true but R is false. 
4. A is false but R is true.

Ans C. A is true but R is false.

 

Q11 Assertion (A): The mangrove forests are known for their distinct quality. 

Reason (R): They are able to survive in saline water and are found in the Sunderbans and Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Options: 

1. Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A. 
2. Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A. 
3. A is true but R is false. 
4. A is false but R is true.

Ans A. Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.

 

Q12 Assertion (A): India is a hotspot for biodiversity. 

Reason (R): The ecosystem in India ranges from the Himalayas in the north to the Evergreen Forest in the South.The desert sands in the West, to the marshy mangroves in the east.

Options: 

1. Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A. 
2. Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A. 
3. A is true but R is false. 
4. A is false but R is true.

Ans A. Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A. 

 

Fill in the blanks in the following:

 

Q1 Plant species of a particular region are called _________.

Ans flora

 

Q2 Animal species of a particular region are called _________.

Ans fauna

 

Q3 A very large ecosystem on land having distinct types of vegetation and animal life is called a __________.

Ans biome

 

Q4 The number of flowering plants in India is ____________.

Ans 15,000

 

Q5 ___________ refers to the plants which have grown naturally without human aid and have been left undisturbed by humans for a long time.

Ans Natural vegetation

 

Q6 Biomes are identified on the basis of __________.

Ans plants

 

Q7 The other name of Tropical Rainforests is _____________.

Ans Tropical Evergreen Forests

 

Q8 Thorny trees and shrubs found in ______________.

Ans Gujarat and Rajasthan

 

Q9 Wildlife Protection Act was implemented in India in _________.

Ans 1972

 

Q10 The Virgin vegetation which is purely Indian is known as _________.

Ans endemic

 

2 Mark Questions

 

Q1 Distinguish between: (NCERT QUESTION)

1. Flora and Fauna 

Ans Plant species of a particular region are called flora and animal species of a particular region are called fauna. 

 

2. Tropical Evergreen and Deciduous forests 

Ans Tropical Evergreen Forests: They are called rainforests. No definite time for trees to shed leaves. Rainfall is more than 200 cm. 

Tropical Deciduous Forests: They are called Monsoon forests. Trees shed leaves for about six to eight weeks in the dry summer. Rainfall range is between 200 cm to 70 cm.

 

Q2 Quite a few species of plants and animals are endangered in India. Why? (NCERT QUESTION)

Ans 1. Increasing population 

2. Pollution 
3. Deforestation 
4. Hunting by poachers

 

Q3 Why does India have a rich heritage of flora and fauna? (NCERT QUESTION)

Ans 1. A country with diverse relief features 

2. Availability of different types of soil. 
3. Variation in climatic conditions

 

Q4 ‘When the vegetation is altered, the animal life also changes’. How? 

Ans This happens because plants occur in distinct groups of communities in areas having similar climatic conditions. The nature of the plants in an area, to a large extent, determines the animal life in that area. All the plants and animals in an area are interdependent and interrelated to each other in their physical environment. Therefore when the vegetation changes, the animal life is affected. 

 

Q5 Which forest is the most widespread forest of India? What is its other name? Give an example of any two species of trees of these forests. 

Ans The Tropical Deciduous Forest is the most widespread forest of India. These forests are also called the Monsoon Forests. Shisham and sal are two important species of these forests.

 

Q6 What are the causes for the variation of sunlight at different places? 

Ans Differences in latitude 

Differences in altitude 

Season 

Duration of the day 

 

Q7 In which regions are the following animals found? 

Ans Lion: Gir forest in Gujarat 

Tigers: Forests of Madhya Pradesh 

Leopards: Himalayas

 

Q8 Name some bio reserves in India which have been included in the world network of biosphere reserves. 

Ans 1. Sundarbans 

2. Nanda Devi 
3. Gulf of Mannar 
4. Nilgiris 
5. Nokrek 
6. Great Nicobar 

 

Q9 What are migratory birds? 

Ans Migratory birds visit a warmer country during the winters as in their native country the temperature falls below freezing point. These birds return to their native area in summer. 

 

Q10 Give reasons why India’s natural vegetation has undergone many changes? 

Ans India’s natural vegetation has undergone many changes due to the: growing demand for cultivated land development of industries and mining urbanization and overgrazing of pastures

 

Q11 How many National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries have been set up by the government to take care of the natural heritage of India? Why have these been established by the government? 

Ans 103 National Parks and 535 Wildlife Sanctuaries have been set up to take care of the natural heritage of India. These have been established to protect and save the flora and fauna, and maintain the balance of the ecosystem. 

 

Q12 Name two states where thorn forests and scrub vegetation are found. Which are the common animals found in these forests? Why is there absence of trees in these forests? 

Ans Thorn forests and scrub vegetation are found in Gujarat and Rajasthan. Camels, rats, wild ass are the common animals found in these forests. There is absence of trees because rainfall is less than 70 cm in these regions. 

 

3 Mark Questions

Q1 Answer the following questions briefly. (NCERT QUESTION)

1. What factors are responsible for the distribution of plants and animals in India? 

Ans Climatic conditions: Temperature Humidity Photoperiod Precipitation Relief: Land Soil

 

2. What is a bio-reserve? Give two examples. 

Ans Bio-reserves are protected areas. This is done to protect natural vegetation, wildlife and the environment. 2 examples: Sunderbans Gulf of Mannar

 

3. Name two animals having habitat in the tropical and montane type of vegetation. 

Ans Tropical: Tiger, Elephant. Montane: Snow Leopard

 

Q2 Name different types of vegetation found in India and describe the vegetation of high altitudes. (NCERT QUESTION)

Ans 1. Tropical evergreen forests 

2. Tropical deciduous forests 
3. Tropical Thorn forests and scrubs 
4. Montane forests 
5. Mangrove forests 

Vegetation in high altitudes:

1. Alpine vegetation found in altitudes above 3600 m. 
2. Trees in these areas are junipers, birches and pines.

 

Q3 Where are mangrove forests found? How are they formed? Which is the most important tree of the Ganga Delta? 

Ans 1. Mangrove forests are found in the coastal areas mainly in the deltas of the rivers. 

2. These forests are also known as the tidal forests as they are formed by the tides which bring in mud and silt and accumulate it on the coasts. 
3. The most important tree of the Ganga Delta is the Sundari tree which is hard and durable. 

 

Q4 Name any three medicinal plants of India and mention for what they are used. 

Ans 1. Jamun: The juice has digestive properties. The powder of the seed is used for curing diabetes. 

2. Arjun: The fresh juice of leaves is a cure for earaches and regulates blood pressure. 
3. Tulsi Plant: It is used to cure cough and cold.

 

Q5 ‘Bird life in India is colourful’. Explain. 

Ans 1. The country has about 2,000 species of birds. Some of the wetlands of India are popular with migratory birds. 

2. Peacocks, pheasants, ducks, parakeets, cranes and pigeons are some of the birds inhabiting the forests and the wetlands of the country.
3. In places where the desert merges with the sea, like the Rann of Kachchh, flamingos with their pink plumage, come in large numbers. 

 

Q6 A great variety of flora is found in India. Give three geographical factors responsible for this diversification of flora. 

Ans India has a great variety in flora because of: 

1. Varied relief of mountains, plains, plateaus and desert. They have their own different types of flora. In the mountainous regions, wet temperate forests are found between the height of 1000-2000 m, coniferous forests are found between 1500 and 3000 m. Trees like the pine, deodar, spruce and cedar are found. In regions of less rainfall (less than 70 cm) and in semi-arid regions the vegetation consists of acacias, palms and cacti. 
2. In areas of heavy rainfall like the Western Ghats, which receive more than 200 cm of rainfall, tropical evergreen forests are found. 
3. Different types of terrain and soil – like alluvial, black, red, laterite support different types of vegetation e.g., black soil is good for growing cotton. 

 

Q7 Distinguish between Thorn Forests and Mangrove Forests. 

Ans 

Thorn Forests	Mangrove Forests
1. Located in regions having 70 cm of rainfall. The natural vegetation consists of thorny trees and bushes.	1. The Mangrove tidal forests are found in coastal regions influenced by tides.
2. Found in semi-arid regions, e.g., Gujarat, Rajasthan, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh.	2. Mangrove tidal forests are found in the deltas of Ganga, Mahanadi, Krishna, Godavari and Kaveri.
3. Babool, kikar, palms, cacti and acacia are the main plant species.	3. The Sundari is an important tree found here. These have hard durable wood. Other examples are agar, keora.

 

Q8 Write three measures to conserve Ecosystem. 

Ans Ecosystem can be conserved by: 

1. avoiding cutting of trees indiscriminately. 
2. checking rapid growth of population. Otherwise overcrowding will result in imbalances and the pollution of the environment. 
3. checking the smoke from the chimneys and vehicles. Waste from farms, factories and cities should be scientifically treated so that we can save our ecosystem and preserve it for the benefit of mankind. 

 

Q9 Explain the ‘natural ecosystem’. Why is any attempt to tamper with the ecosystem fraught with grave risks?

Ans 1. An ecosystem consists of all species of plants and animals in a given area which are interdependent. 

2. It is the ecosystem which helps the man to survive and lead a comfortable life. It provides man with food, raw material for industries and clothing. The natural resources should be used carefully so that they are not exhausted in a short time. 
3. Ecosystems can be conserved by avoiding cutting of trees indiscriminately. Checking on rapid growth of population, otherwise overcrowding will result in the imbalances and pollution of the environment. 

 

Q10 Describe the major vegetation zones of the Himalayan region. 

Ans In mountainous areas (Himalayas), the decrease in temperature and increase in altitude leads to the corresponding changes in natural vegetation. The major vegetation zones are: 

1. Wet temperate types of forests are located between a height of 1000-2000 metres. Evergreen broad-leaf trees such as chir, chill, ash, oak, chestnuts are found in this region. 
2. Between 1500-3000 metres above sea-level, coniferous forests such as pine, deodar, silver fir, spruce and cedar are found. 
3. At high altitude, Alpine vegetation comprising Silver fir, junipers, pines and birches is found. 
4. Tundra vegetation of moss and lichen prevails at higher altitude. 

 

Q11 Write three measures to protect wildlife. 

Ans The measures taken by the Government for the protection and conservation of our biological diversity are: 

1. Periodic censuses are conducted to find out the latest position and trends in this regard.
2. Tiger reserves have been set up. Project Tiger is a great success. 
3. Rhinos in Assam and elephants in Periyar are being conserved. 
4. Several national parks and bird sanctuaries have been set up. 

 

Q12 Describe the vegetation and the wildlife found in the Ganga and Brahmaputra delta.

Ans 1. Mangrove tidal forests are found in coastal regions, influenced by the tides. The roots of the plants are submerged under water. They are found in the deltas of Ganga and Brahmaputra. 

2. The Sundari trees are found here. They have hard durable wood. 
3. Other examples are agar, keora. The Tigers are found in the Sundarbans of West Bengal. Turtles, crocodiles, gharials and snakes are also found in these forests. 

 

Q13 Mention the ways in which the desert plants adapt themselves to their surroundings. 

Ans 1. Trees are scattered. 

2. Have long roots which go deep into the soil to get moisture. 
3. The stems are succulent to conserve water. 
4. Leaves are thick and small to prevent excessive evaporation of moisture. 

 

Q14 Which migratory bird visits the Rann of Kachchh in winter? Why? How do we benefit from these birds? 

Ans 1. Siberian Crane is the migratory bird which visits the Rann of Kachchh in winter.

2. It becomes extremely cold in Siberia so they come here and build nest mounds from the salty mud and raise their young ones. 
3. The visit of the Siberian Crane is one among many extraordinary sights in the country. Many tourists and visitors come here to see them. 

 

Q15 Compare the wildlife of the Himalayas and the wetlands of our country. 

Ans 1. The animals of the Himalayas can survive in the extreme cold where the temperatures are very low. 

2. These include shaggy horned wild ox, the Tibetan antelope, the bharal, wild sheep and the Tibetan wild ass. 
3. Rare animals like the snow leopard and the red panda are found in certain areas. In the wetlands, animals like the crocodiles, gharial and turtles are commonly found. A number of reptiles and birds inhabit the wetlands of the country. 

 

Q16 What is the meaning of flora and fauna? How is India rich in its fauna? Explain.

Ans 1. The term ‘flora’ is used to denote plants and the term ‘fauna’ is used to denote animals. India has approximately 90,000 of animal species. 

2. The country has about 2,000 species of birds. There are 2546 species of fish, which account for nearly 12% of the world’s stock. It also shares between 5 and 8 percent of the world’s amphibians, reptiles and mammals.
3. India is the only country in the world that has both tigers and lions. In the rivers, lakes and coastal areas, turtles, crocodiles and gharials are found. Peacocks, Pheasants, ducks and cranes are some of the birds inhabiting the forests and wetlands of the country.

 

4 Mark Questions

 

Q1 Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow:

Our country India is one of the 12 mega biodiversity countries of the world. With about 47,000 plant species India occupies tenth place in the world and fourth in Asia. There are about 15,000 flowering plants in India. Moreover, it also has approximately 90,000 species of animals as well as many varieties of fishes. Natural vegetation refers to a plant community, which has grown naturally without human aid and has been left undisturbed by humans for a long time. This is termed as virgin vegetation. Thus, cultivated crops and fruits, orchards form part of vegetation but not natural vegetation. The virgin vegetation, which are purely Indian are known as endemic or indigenous species but those which have come from outside India are termed as exotic plants.

 

1. Why is India among the 12 mega biodiversity countries of the world? (1)

Ans Firstly, India has about 47000 species of plants out of which 15000 are flowering plants. Moreover, it also has 90000 varieties of animal species. Therefore, wide varieties of flora and fauna make India among the 12 mega biodiversity countries of the world.

 

2. What is virgin vegetation? (1)

Ans Virgin vegetation refers to Natural vegetation. It is a type of vegetation which grows naturally and grows without human interference.

 

3. Define endemic and exotic plants. (2)

Ans Endemic plants: It is the natural vegetation, which is purely Indian. It is exclusively found in India. Therefore, such vegetation is known as endemic species.

Exotic plants: The plants which have come from outside India are called exotic plants.

 

Q2 Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow:

Forests are renewable resources and play a major role in enhancing the quality of the environment. Moreover, they modify local climate, control soil erosion, regulate stream flow, and support a variety of industries. Not only that, it also provides livelihood for many communities and offers panoramic or scenic views. They control wind force and temperature and cause rains. They provide humus to the soil and shelter to the wildlife. India’s natural vegetation has undergone many changes due to several factors, such as the growing demand for cultivated land, development of industries and mining, urbanization and overgrazing of pastures.

 

1. How do forests help in enhancing the quality of the environment? (1)

Ans Forests play a major role in enhancing the quality of the environment. Forests control soil erosion, regulates temperature, causes rainfall, absorbs carbon dioxide and releases oxygen. This is how it plays a major role in enhancing the quality of the environment.

 

2. India’s natural vegetation has undergone many changes. Comment. (1)

Ans Earlier, India was a country with dense and a wide variety of natural vegetation. But, today natural vegetation has undergone many changes. It is due to the development of agricultural land, industries, mining, urbanization etc.

 

3. How are forests important for human beings? (2)

Ans Forests are important for human beings in many ways such as:

1. It provides timber for industries.
2. We get many forest products such as rubber, lac, resin etc.
3. Provides livelihood for many communities. 
4. Modifies temperature, recharges underground water and causes rainfall.

 

Q3 Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow:

These forests are restricted to heavy rainfall areas of the Western Ghats. They are at their best in areas having more than 200 cm of rainfall with a short dry season. The trees reach great heights up to 60 meters or even above. Since the region is warm and wet throughout the year, it has of all kinds-trees, shrubs and creepers giving it a multilayered structure. There is no definite time for trees to shed their leaves. As such, these forests appear green all year round. Some of the commercially important trees of this forest are ebony, mahogany, rosewood, rubber and cinchona.

 

1. Which forests are mentioned in the above paragraph? (1)

Ans Tropical rain forest is also known as evergreen forests.

 

2. Why do these forests appear green throughout the year? (1)

Ans These forests appear green throughout the year because they do not shed their leaves altogether.

 

3. These forests are commercially not very useful. Give two reasons. (2)

Ans These forests are commercially not very useful. Two reasons are:

1. As these forests are very dark, it is difficult to identify the trees. 
2. The forests are very dense, so it is difficult to enter.

 

Q4 Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow:

These are the most widespread forests of India. They are also called the monsoon forests and spread over the region receiving rainfall between 200 cm and 70 cm. Trees of this forest type shed their leaves for about six to eight weeks in dry summer. On the basis of the availability of water, these forests are further divided into moist and dry. The former is found in areas receiving rainfall between 200 and 100 cm. These forests exist, therefore, mostly in the eastern part of the country-northeastern states, along the foothills of the Himalayas, Jharkhand, West Odisha and Chhattisgarh, and on the eastern slopes of the Western Ghats. Teak is the most dominant species of this forest. Bamboos, sal, shisham, sandalwood and mulberry are other commercially important species.

 

1. Which forests are mentioned in the paragraph? 

Ans The paragraph above mentions Tropical deciduous also known as monsoon forests.

 

2. When and why do these forests shed their leaves? 

Ans These forests shed their leaves during dry summer to reduce water loss.

 

3. Why are these forests commercially important?

Ans These forests are commercially important because of the availability of highly valuable trees.

 

4. Which is the most dominant species of this forest?

Ans Teak is the most dominant species of this forest. Bamboos, sal, shisham, sandalwood and mulberry are other commercially important species.

 

5 Mark Questions

Q1 Write the main characteristics of tropical deciduous forests. 

Ans Main characteristics of tropical deciduous forests are: 

1. They form the natural cover almost all over India, hence they are also called ‘monsoon forests’.
2. Rainfall needed is between 75-200 cm. They are subdivided into (i) moist deciduous (ii) dry deciduous. Examples are sal, teak, shisham, sandalwood, bamboo, etc. 
3. Trees shed their leaves for about six to eight weeks in summer. 
4. Located on the eastern slopes of Western Ghats, Uttar Pradesh, Chattisgarh, northeastern states Bihar, West Odisha, along the Shiwaliks and rainier pans of peninsular plateau. 
5. These forests are economically most important. They have been commercially exploited, providing the most valuable timber and other forest products.

 

Q2 Why are forests important to man? What has been the result of man’s interference with nature? 

Ans The importance of forests are as follows: 

1. Forests increase the quality of the environment. 
2. They modify the climate. 
3. They control the erosion of the soil. 
4. Regulate stream flow. 
5. They support many industries and thus provide a livelihood for the rural population. 
6. Forests provide humus to the soil and shelter to the wildlife. 
7. The interference of man with nature has resulted in the extinction of many plants and animals. 

 

Q3 Complete the following table: Name any two common animals found in these forests. 

 

	Height	Trees
1. Wet Temperate
2. Temperate Forests
3. Alpine
4. Tundra

 

Ans 

	Height	Trees
1. Wet Temperate	1,000-2,000 metres	Oaks, Chestnuts
2. Temperate Forests	1,500-3,000 meters	Pine, deodar, spruce, cedar
3. Alpine	(High altitude) 3,600 meters above sea-level	Silver fir, junipers, pines
4. Tundra	Higher altitudes	Mosses, lichens

 

The common animals found in these forests are the Kashmir stag and the spotted deer. 

 

Q4 Mention the steps taken by the government to protect the flora and fauna. 

Ans 1. Eighteen biosphere reserves have been set up for the protection of the flora and fauna. 

2. Financial and technical assistance has been provided to many Botanical Gardens since 1992. 
3. Many eco-developmental projects have been introduced e.g., Project Tiger, Project Rhino, Project Great Indian Bustard etc. 
4. 103 National Parks and 535 Wildlife Sanctuaries set up to take care of the natural heritage. 
5. Setting up of Zoological gardens. 

 

Q5 Describe the features of the Mangrove forests? 

Ans 1. Mangrove forests are found in the coastal regions which are affected by tides. 

2. Dense mangroves are the common varieties of trees. 
3. The roots of the plants are submerged in water and can be seen only during low tide.
4. The Sundari trees found in the Ganga-Brahmaputra delta provide durable hard timber. 
5. Palm, coconut, keora, agar also grow in some parts of the delta. 
6. The Royal Bengal Tiger is the famous animal in these forests. 

 

Q6 Give a brief account of the wildlife in India in five points. 

Ans 1. India is rich in its wildlife. It has about 90,000 animal species, about 2000 species of birds and about 2546 species of fish. 

2. Elephants are found in the hot wet forests of Assam, Karnataka and Kerala. One-horned rhinoceros live in swampy and marshy lands of Assam and North-west Bengal.
3. Rann of Kutch and Thar desert are habitat of wild asses and camels. Lions are found in Gir hills of Gujarat and Tigers in the Sundarbans of West Bengal. 
4. The Himalayas harbor a wide wild variety of animals, e.g., yaks, snow-leopards, bear, Tibetan antelope [bharal (blue sheep), musk-deer, kiang (Tibetan wild ass), etc. 
5. In rivers, lakes and coastal areas, turtles, crocodiles and gharials are found. 

 

Q7 Distinguish between Tropical Evergreen and Deciduous Forests.

Ans 

Tropical Evergreen Forests	Deciduous Forests
1. Located in regions of heavy rainfall more than 200 cm of rainfall.	1. The Mangrove tidal forests are found in coastal regions influenced by tides.
2. Luxuriant vegetation of all kinds, trees, shrubs and creepers. Trees reach a height of 60 meters.	2. These are the most widespread forests of India. They are divided into moist and dry deciduous forest.
3. There is no definite time for trees to shed their leaves. These forests generally appear green all year round.	3. Trees of this forest type shed their leaves for about 6-8 weeks in dry summer.
4. These forests are found in Western Ghats, Assam, Tamil Nadu, Lakshadweep, Andaman and Nicobar.	4. Wet deciduous trees are found in regions between 100-200 cm of rainfall, e.g., Jharkhand, Odisha and Chattisgarh. Dry deciduous trees are found in regions between 70-100 cm of rainfall, e.g., Bihar. Uttar Pradesh.
5. Some important trees of this forest are ebony, mahogany, rosewood, cinchona. Trees, shrubs and creepers give it a multi-layered structure.	5. There are open stretches in which teak, peepal, neem, sal grow.

 

Map Based Questions

Q1 On the map of India, mark the natural vegetation of India.

Ans

Image Credit:mapsofindia.com

Q2 On the map of India, mark the wildlife reserves of India.

Ans

Image Credit: NCERT Textbook (Contemporary India-I)
 
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