A. Factors Responsible for Diversity of Natural Vegetation:
- Climate:
- Rainfall: Varies from >200 cm (Western Ghats) to <25 cm (Thar Desert).
- Temperature: Tropical in south, temperate in Himalayas.
- Determines types: Tropical Evergreen, Deciduous, Thorn, Montane, etc.
- Soil:
- Red soil (peninsula), laterite (Western Ghats), alluvial (plains) support varied flora.
- Topography & Altitude:
- Himalayan altitudinal zonation: tropical to alpine.
- Coastal areas: mangroves (e.g., Sundarbans).
- Biotic Factors:
- Human activities: agriculture, urbanization, deforestation.
- Grazing & forest fires impact composition.
- Latitude & Physiography:
- India’s latitudinal spread (8°N–37°N) & presence of Western Ghats, Himalayas, Deccan Plateau foster diversity.
B. Significance of Wildlife Sanctuaries in Rainforest Regions:
- Biodiversity Conservation:
- Rainforests (e.g., Western Ghats, Northeast) are biodiversity hotspots (UNESCO-listed).
- Sanctuaries like Periyar (Kerala), Silent Valley (Kerala), Namdapha (Arunachal Pradesh) protect endemic & endangered species.
- Ecological Stability:
- Prevent soil erosion, regulate hydrological cycle, act as carbon sinks.
- Climate Regulation:
- Rainforests influence monsoonal dynamics and mitigate climate change impacts.
- Tribal Livelihoods:
- Support sustainable livelihoods of indigenous communities (e.g., Todas in Nilgiris).
- Research & Education:
- Serve as ecological laboratories for conservation science.
Conclusion:
India’s natural vegetation reflects its ecological diversity. Rainforest sanctuaries play a crucial role in conserving this natural wealth while promoting sustainability.
