Question 14Discuss geographical conditions and highlight ecological significanceGS1GS1

Discuss the geographical conditions responsible for the development of shola forests in the upper reaches of the Western Ghats. Highlight their ecological significance. (Answer in 250 words)

Introduction

Shola forests are evergreen forests found in upper reaches of the western ghats

13 words

Main Body

Geographical conditions responsible for development: (1) High geographic rainfall from south-west monsoon (2) Higher altitude regions supports growth (3) Moderate temperature at altitude (4) Continuous nature of Western ghats enables development (5) Proximity to west coast & Arabian sea (6) lies on windward side of Arabian sea branch of south west monsoon (7) Characteristics of soil promote growth of shola forests in region

Ecological Significance: (1) Rich in bio diversitywestern ghats is a global biodiversity hotspot (2) Have a cooling effect on surrounding area (3) Sequester large amount of carbon hence helps combat climate change (4) High degree of endemism of species of plants/animals (5) Interne surface albedo have reduce global warming (6) Livelihoods of local communitiessource of timber & other resources (7) Air as natural barriers/bio-shields (8) Reduce landslide vulnerability by producing soil erosion (deep roots)

141 words1 paragraphs

Conclusion

Shola forests are crucial ecosystem requiring preservation on lines of UN strategic action plan on forests 2017-30

17 words

Diagram

Shola Forest region map/diagram shown

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Page 34

Topper

Aryan Yadav

AIR 31

Subject & Paper

GS1GS1

Topic

Salient features of World's Physical Geography

Distribution of Key Natural Resources and Geographical Features

Shola forests - geographical conditions

Writing Stats

171

Total words

Paragraphs

descriptive, geographical

Tone