JA

Jayant AgarwalAIR 64

Question 14GS1GS1

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)

Open scan (p.35)

Introduction

Sholas are dwarf tree forest predominantly found in Western Ghats in suspected within grasslands. Many geographical conditions responsible for shola forest in western ghat.

24 words

Main Body

Sholas are dwarf tree forest predominantly found in Western Ghats in suspected within grasslands. Many geographical conditions responsible for shola forest in western ghat.

Shola forest - Conditions for development:

1Elevation: Shola forest are found at elevation upto 4000m in western Map/Area, 6.L0 ft
2Rainfall: Monsoon type of rainfall → lead to growth of evergreen shola and grasslands.
3Sheltery Valley: For retaining Main water for development of shola forests.
4Temperature: Humid temperature due to near equator and ocean provide conditions for shola forests.
5Slopes: Gentle slope of western ghat enables development of shola forest.

Ecological significance of shola forest:

1Retain water: Shola forest helps in retaining water for long term use.
2Regulation of temperature and: [illegible] due to shola trees provide cooling effect and reduce temperature
3Prevent cell erosion and landslides in western ghat through hoot system.
4Habitat for various animal species [EG] such as Nilgiri Tahurs and boulders langur.
5Diverse flora and fauna: Conserve species such as Nilkimiri in Nilgiri Mountains.
6Carbon sequestration: Shola forest act as carbon reserve in ecosystem.

Issues with shola forest in Western Ghats:

1Deforestation and logging for mining purposes
2Rising landslides: [EG] wayored land slides
3Unprotected area: western ghat largely unprotected leading to diversfing forest land.

Shola forest play a key role in ecology of western ghat. There is need to implement recommendation of Madhav Gadgil committee to protect unique biodiversity of the region.

244 words6 paragraphs

Conclusion

Shola forest play a key role in ecology of western ghat. There is need to implement recommendation of Madhav Gadgil committee to protect unique biodiversity of the region.

28 words

Diagram

Simple map showing India with Shola forest area marked in Western Ghats

  • Defines shola forests clearly
  • Identifies key geographical factors
  • Mentions elevation range
  • Includes diagram

Topper

Jayant Agarwal

AIR 64

Subject & Paper

GS1GS1

Topic

Salient features of World's Physical Geography

Important Geophysical Phenomena

Shola forests of Western Ghats

Writing Stats

296

Total words

6

Paragraphs

descriptive-analytical

Tone