Forests

Statement 1 is not a deciduous tree: Jackfruit (*Artocarpus heterophyllus*) is a tropical evergreen tree native to the Western Ghats of India and other parts of Southeast Asia. It retains its foliage throughout the year and is typically found in regions with high rainfall.

Statement 2 is a deciduous tree: Mahua (*Madhuca indica*) is a common species found in tropical deciduous forests across the Indian subcontinent, particularly in central and northern India. It sheds its leaves during the dry season, usually between February and April.

Statement 3 is a deciduous tree: Teak (*Tectona grandis*) is the most dominant and economically important species of tropical deciduous forests (both moist and dry) in India. It is well-known for shedding its leaves during the dry season to conserve moisture.

Since only Mahua and Teak are deciduous trees, the correct answer is 'Only two'.

To determine the ascending order (lowest to highest) of forest cover as a percentage of the total geographical area of the state, we refer to the ISFR 2021 data:

1. Maharashtra (3): 16.51% 2. Madhya Pradesh (2): 25.14%

3. Odisha (4): 33.50% 4. Chhattisgarh (1): 41.21%

Ascending Order: 16.51% (Maharashtra) < 25.14% (Madhya Pradesh) < 33.50% (Odisha) < 41.21% (Chhattisgarh). Therefore, the correct sequence is 3-2-4-1.


Tropical Wet Evergreen Forests are found in regions that have high temperatures and high rainfall throughout the year.


Arunachal Pradesh: This state is located in the eastern part of India and it receives high rainfall. It is known for its rich biodiversity and is home to Tropical Wet Evergreen Forests.

Himachal Pradesh: This state is located in the northern part of India, in the Himalayan region. The climate here is more temperate and alpine due to its high altitude, and it does not support Tropical Wet Evergreen Forests.

Mizoram: This state is located in the northeastern part of India and it also receives high rainfall. It is known for its rich biodiversity and is home to Tropical Wet Evergreen Forests.

Therefore, Tropical Wet Evergreen Forests occur in Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram.

In India, teak is a dominant tree species in Tropical Deciduous Forests.

These forests are also known as "Monsoon Forests" and are characterized by:

- Rainfall: They receive moderate rainfall, typically ranging from 70 to 200 cm annually. - Seasonality: They experience a distinct dry season, leading to trees shedding their leaves during this period. - Vegetation: Tropical Deciduous forests are home to a variety of trees, including teak, sal, shisham, and sandalwood.


The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, due to their unique island ecosystem, provide the ideal conditions for all three forest types to coexist:

Mangrove forests: Thrive in the coastal areas with brackish water.

Evergreen forests: Found in the wetter interior regions with high rainfall.

Deciduous forests: Exist in areas with a seasonal climate, experiencing periods of both rain and dryness.

Statement 1 is correct: Oak trees are a common sight in the temperate forests of the Himalayas, particularly at mid-altitudes.

Statement 2 is correct: Rhododendrons are a diverse group of flowering shrubs that thrive in the cool, moist conditions of the Himalayas. They are known for their vibrant blooms and are a characteristic feature of the Himalayan landscape.

Statement 3 is incorrect: Sandalwood is not typically found in the Himalayas. It prefers drier climates and is more commonly associated with tropical regions like southern India.