CBSE Class 9 Geography Important Questions - Chapter 5 Natural Vegetation and Wildlife

1. Describe what is meant by "virgin vegetation."

Ans: Virgin vegetation refers to plant life that has developed naturally in an area without significant human interference. This type of vegetation is found in untouched or minimally disturbed environments where ecosystems have evolved independently over time. Virgin vegetation represents the original state of a natural habitat, showcasing its native species and ecological balance.

2. Explain What Normally Grows.

Ans: Natural vegetation refers to the plant life that grows in a specific region without human intervention. It includes all the plant species that naturally occur in an area, shaped by the local climate, soil, and other environmental factors. This vegetation forms the native flora of a region and varies according to geographic and climatic conditions.

3. Give a brief explanation of India's diverse wildlife.

Ans: India's diverse fauna is a reflection of its varied climatic zones and ecosystems, ranging from the Himalayas to the deserts and rainforests. Here’s a brief overview:

• Himalayan Region: Home to snow leopards, red pandas, and Tibetan antelopes. The region’s unique altitude and climate support specialised species adapted to cold and high altitudes.

• Western Ghats: Rich in biodiversity, featuring endemic species like the Nilgiri tahr, lion-tailed macaque, and various species of butterflies. This region is known for its tropical evergreen forests.

• Sundarbans Mangroves: Famous for the Bengal tiger, which is specially adapted to the mangrove ecosystem, along with saltwater crocodiles and various bird species.

• Desert Ecosystems: In Rajasthan and Gujarat, animals like the Indian desert fox, camels, and various reptiles are adapted to arid conditions.

• Grasslands and Savannahs: The Indian plains and grasslands support animals like the Indian bison, wild boars, and a variety of deer species.

4. As opposed to the northern sides of the same hills, why are the southern slopes of the Himalayan region covered in an abundance of vegetation?

Ans:

• Sunlight and Temperature: Southern slopes receive more direct sunlight throughout the year. This consistent exposure to sunlight leads to higher temperatures, which promote the growth of a wider variety of vegetation. In contrast, northern slopes are less exposed to direct sunlight, resulting in cooler temperatures that are less conducive to the same level of vegetation growth.

• Rainfall: The southern slopes receive more rainfall as they are in the path of the moist air currents coming from the Indian Ocean. This abundant rainfall supports lush vegetation. Northern slopes, being in the rain shadow area or less exposed to moist air currents, receive less precipitation, resulting in sparse vegetation.

• Soil Conditions: The higher amount of organic matter from the dense vegetation on southern slopes contributes to better soil fertility. This fertile soil supports a more diverse and dense plant cover. The northern slopes, with less vegetation and lower organic matter, have poorer soil fertility and consequently less dense vegetation.

• Climate Variation: The southern slopes experience a more favourable climate for plant growth throughout the year, while the northern slopes can be harsher, especially in winter, leading to reduced plant growth.

5. Why do the dense woods cover the western slopes of the Western Ghats but not the eastern ones?

Ans:

• Monsoon Winds: The western slopes of the Western Ghats receive abundant rainfall because they face the moisture-laden winds from the Arabian Sea. These winds are forced to rise when they hit the Ghats, cooling and condensing to form heavy rainfall on the western slopes. This frequent and substantial rainfall supports dense forest growth. In contrast, the eastern slopes are in the rain shadow area and receive significantly less rainfall.

• Rain Shadow Effect: As the moisture-laden winds ascend the western slopes, they lose most of their moisture, creating a rain shadow effect on the eastern slopes. Consequently, the eastern slopes receive much less precipitation, which is inadequate for sustaining thick forests. Instead, the eastern slopes often have drier, less vegetated landscapes.

• Temperature and Humidity: The western slopes, being exposed to more rainfall, maintain higher humidity levels, which are conducive to the growth of dense tropical and subtropical forests. The eastern slopes, with lower rainfall, have less humidity and support different types of vegetation, often characterized by grasslands and scrublands rather than dense forests.

• Soil Fertility: The western slopes benefit from the fertile soils created by the decomposed organic matter from the lush forests. This rich soil supports robust forest growth. The eastern slopes, with less vegetation and lower organic content in the soil, have less fertile soil, which affects the density and type of vegetation that can grow there.

6. Compose a brief essay about tropical evergreen forests.

Ans: Tropical Evergreen Forests are dense, lush forests found in regions with a tropical climate, characterised by high temperatures and high humidity throughout the year. These forests are typically located near the equator and receive substantial rainfall, usually exceeding 2000 mm annually. Here’s a brief overview of their key features:

1. Location: Tropical Evergreen Forests are primarily found in areas within the tropics, such as the Amazon Basin in South America, the Congo Basin in Africa, and parts of Southeast Asia, including Indonesia and Malaysia. They also cover parts of the Western Ghats and northeastern India.

2. Climate: These forests thrive in regions with constant warmth and high humidity. The climate is usually warm throughout the year, with temperatures ranging between 20°C and 25°C. Rainfall is abundant and evenly distributed throughout the year, contributing to the lush, evergreen nature of these forests.

3. Flora: The vegetation in Tropical Evergreen Forests is extremely dense and diverse. The forest canopy is multi-layered, with towering trees reaching heights of 30 to 60 meters. Common tree species include mahogany, ebony, and rubber trees. The undergrowth is rich in shrubs, ferns, and various types of vegetation. These forests support a wide variety of plant species, contributing to their high biodiversity.

4. Fauna: These forests are home to a vast array of wildlife, including numerous species of mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects. Notable animals include jaguars, tigers, monkeys, and a variety of colourful birds like parrots and toucans. The diversity in animal life is matched by the complexity of the plant life.

5. Ecological Importance: Tropical Evergreen Forests play a crucial role in regulating the global climate by absorbing carbon dioxide, thus mitigating the effects of climate change. They also help maintain the water cycle, contribute to soil fertility, and act as crucial habitats for countless species.

7. Write about deciduous and evergreen forests. What distinctions exist?

Ans:

Evergreen Forests:

• Definition: Trees keep their leaves all year round.

• Location: Found in tropical areas like the Amazon rainforest and parts of India (e.g., Western Ghats).

• Climate: Warm with lots of rain throughout the year.

• Plants: Includes trees like mahogany and rubber.

• Animals: Home to many animals, such as tigers and various bird species.

Deciduous Forests:

• Definition: Trees lose their leaves seasonally, usually in autumn.

• Location: Found in temperate areas like parts of North America, Europe, and central India.

• Climate: Experiences different seasons with cold winters and warm summers.

• Plants: Includes trees like oak and maple.

• Animals: Home to animals that adapt to seasonal changes, like deer and bears.

Differences:

1. Leaf Retention:

• Evergreen: Leaves stay on the trees year-round.

• Deciduous: Leaves fall off in autumn and grow back in spring.

2. Climate:

• Evergreen: Warm and wet all year.

• Deciduous: Cold winters and warm summers with more seasonal changes.

3. Flora:

• Evergreen: Includes pine and mahogany trees.

• Deciduous: Includes oak and maple trees.

4. Fauna:

• Evergreen: Animals like jaguars and parrots that thrive in constant conditions.

• Deciduous: Animals like bears and squirrels that adapt to seasonal changes.

8. Explain what Mangrove Forests are.

Ans: Mangrove forests are unique coastal ecosystems found in tropical and subtropical regions where saltwater and freshwater mix. These forests thrive in intertidal zones, often along river estuaries, deltas, and coastal lagoons. Mangroves are characterised by their salt-tolerant trees and shrubs, such as the red mangrove, black mangrove, and white mangrove. These plants have specialised adaptations, like aerial roots and salt-filtering mechanisms, that enable them to survive in saline, waterlogged conditions.

9. Talk about the consequences of plants and animals being extinct from the surface of the earth. Can people survive in an environment like this? Why is biodiversity important, and why is it important to protect it?

Ans:

• If all plants and animals disappeared from Earth, humans could not survive. Plants are crucial because they produce oxygen and form the basis of our food supply. Without them, there would be no food or oxygen, leading to widespread starvation and death.

• Animals are also important as they help with pollination, seed dispersal, and pest control. Without them, plants would struggle to reproduce, and ecosystems would become unbalanced.

• Biodiversity, which is the variety of life on Earth, is essential for keeping ecosystems stable and resilient. It helps ecosystems recover from problems like diseases or climate change. Protecting biodiversity ensures we have clean air, water, and food, and it also supports the natural beauty and knowledge we value.

10. What elements influence the distribution of animals and plants in India?

Ans:

• Climate: Temperature, humidity, and rainfall significantly impact the types of vegetation and wildlife in different regions. For instance, tropical rainforests thrive in regions with high rainfall and constant temperatures, while deserts support xerophytes that can tolerate arid conditions.

• Soil Type: The kind of soil affects plant growth, which in turn influences the types of animals that can live there. Fertile soils support diverse plant life, leading to richer ecosystems, whereas less fertile soils limit vegetation and animal diversity.

• Topography: The physical features of the land, including elevation, slope, and aspect, determine the types of vegetation that can grow and the animals that can inhabit those areas. For example, the Himalayas support alpine vegetation and specific animal species adapted to cold climates.

• Water Availability: Proximity to water bodies like rivers, lakes, and wetlands influences plant and animal life. Aquatic plants and animals are found near water sources, while arid regions support species adapted to dry conditions.

• Human Activity: Urbanization, deforestation, and agricultural practices impact the natural habitats of plants and animals. Areas affected by human activity may have reduced biodiversity due to habitat loss and pollution.

• Geological Factors: The type of rocks and minerals in an area can affect soil fertility and, consequently, the distribution of vegetation and wildlife. For example, the fertile alluvial soil of river valleys supports rich plant life.

11. What precisely is a bio-reserve? Give two instances.

Ans: A bio-reserve, also known as a biosphere reserve, is a protected area designated for the conservation of biological diversity, including plants, animals, and their habitats. These areas are established to preserve ecosystems, promote sustainable development, and support scientific research. Biosphere reserves often include multiple zones with varying levels of protection, such as core areas, buffer zones, and transition areas.

Examples of Biosphere Reserves:

1. Sundarbans Biosphere Reserve: Located in West Bengal, India, this reserve is known for its extensive mangrove forests and unique wildlife, including the Bengal tiger. It supports a rich variety of flora and fauna adapted to the tidal and saline environment.

2. Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve: Situated in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, this reserve encompasses the Nanda Devi Peak and surrounding areas. It is known for its high-altitude alpine and subalpine ecosystems, as well as its diverse plant and animal species, including the endangered snow leopard.

12. List two creatures that live in montane and tropical vegetation.

Ans:

Tropical Vegetation:

1. Bengal Tiger: Found in the tropical rainforests and mangrove forests of India, particularly in regions like the Sundarbans.

2. Indian Elephant: Inhabits the tropical forests of the Western Ghats and parts of northeastern India.

Montane Vegetation:

1. Himalayan Blue Sheep: Lives in the montane forests and alpine meadows of the Himalayas.

2. Snow Leopard: Found in the high-altitude montane regions of the Himalayas and other mountainous regions in Asia.

13. What kinds of creatures inhabit tropical evergreen forests?

Ans: Animals found in tropical evergreen forests include:

1. Bengal Tiger: Inhabits the dense forests of the Sundarbans and other tropical rainforests in India.

2. Asian Elephant: Roams the tropical rainforests of Western Ghats and northeastern India.

3. Indian Leopard: Lives in various parts of tropical evergreen forests across India.

4. Great Hornbill: Found in the tropical rainforests of the Western Ghats and northeastern India.

5. Nilgai: Also known as the blue bull, it is found in the tropical forests of India.

14. Describe the measures the government has taken to safeguard the nation's wildlife and flora.

Ans:

• Establishment of Protected Areas: India has set up numerous national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and biosphere reserves to safeguard critical habitats and endangered species. Examples include Jim Corbett National Park, Kaziranga National Park, and the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.

• Wildlife Protection Act: Enacted in 1972, this law provides legal protection to wildlife and regulates hunting, trade, and exploitation. It aims to prevent poaching and illegal wildlife trade.

• National Biodiversity Action Plan (NBAP): Launched in 2008, the NBAP outlines strategies for the conservation of biodiversity, including sustainable use of biological resources and protection of ecosystems.

• Project Tiger and Project Elephant: Initiated in 1973 and 1992, respectively, these programs focus on the conservation of tigers and elephants through habitat protection, anti-poaching measures, and community engagement.

• Forest Conservation Act: This act regulates the diversion of forest lands for non-forest purposes and ensures the protection and sustainable management of forest resources.

• Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB): Established in 2007, the WCCB monitors and investigates wildlife crimes, including poaching and illegal trade.

• Green India Mission: Part of the National Action Plan on Climate Change, this mission aims to enhance forest cover, restore degraded ecosystems, and improve biodiversity conservation.

• Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA): The EIA process ensures that development projects consider environmental impacts and include measures to mitigate adverse effects on flora and fauna.

15. List the many vegetation kinds that can be found in India and explain the high-altitude vegetation.

Ans:

1. Tropical Deciduous Forests: Also known as monsoon forests, these are characterized by trees that shed their leaves during the dry season to conserve water. They are found in regions with moderate rainfall, including parts of central and southern India, and the eastern states like Bihar and Jharkhand.

2. Thorn Forests and Scrubs: These vegetation types are found in arid and semi-arid regions with low rainfall. They are characterised by thorny shrubs and small trees. This type is prevalent in the western parts of India, such as Rajasthan and Gujarat.

3. Mountain Forests: Located in the hilly and mountainous regions, these forests vary with altitude. They include temperate and coniferous forests, as seen in the Himalayan foothills and parts of the northeastern states.

4. Mangrove Forests: These are found in coastal regions where saltwater meets freshwater. Mangroves have adapted to saline conditions and are found in areas such as the Sundarbans in West Bengal and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Vegetation of High Altitudes

The vegetation of high altitudes varies according to the altitude, temperature, and precipitation. It can be classified into:

• Alpine Vegetation: Found above the tree line, typically at elevations over 3,500 meters. The vegetation is sparse and includes grasses, shrubs, and low-growing plants adapted to cold temperatures and high winds. Examples include the areas of Ladakh and Sikkim.

• Temperate Forests: These are found at moderate elevations, between 1,500 to 3,500 meters. They consist of coniferous trees like pines, firs, and deodars. These forests are typically found in the lower regions of the Himalayas, such as Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand.

• Sub-Alpine Vegetation: This is located just below the alpine zone, between 2,500 to 3,500 meters. It includes shrubs, dwarf trees, and herbs adapted to colder temperatures. This type of vegetation can be seen in regions like the upper slopes of the Western Ghats and parts of the Himalayas.

16. India is home to a large number of endangered plant and animal species. Why?

Ans:

• Habitat Destruction: Rapid deforestation, urbanisation, and industrialisation lead to the loss of natural habitats. Forests, wetlands, and grasslands are cleared for agriculture, infrastructure development, and mining, reducing the area available for wildlife.

• Poaching and Illegal Trade: Many species are hunted for their fur, bones, horns, or other body parts. The illegal wildlife trade exacerbates the problem, targeting endangered species for their perceived medicinal or commercial value.

• Climate Change: Changes in climate patterns affect ecosystems and disrupt the delicate balance of habitats. Altered weather conditions, rising temperatures, and changing precipitation patterns impact species that are unable to adapt quickly.

• Pollution: Pollution of air, water, and soil negatively affects wildlife health. Contaminants can poison plants and animals, disrupt reproductive patterns, and lead to habitat degradation.

• Human-Wildlife Conflict: As human populations expand, encounters between wildlife and humans increase. Animals may enter agricultural fields or settlements, leading to conflicts that result in their killing or displacement.

• Invasive Species: Non-native species introduced into new environments can outcompete local flora and fauna. These invasive species can alter habitats and disrupt ecosystems, putting native species at risk.

• Overexploitation: Unsustainable use of natural resources, such as overfishing, excessive logging, and overgrazing, depletes resources needed by wildlife for survival.

17. List ten jobs that use wildlife and forests as their primary source of raw materials.

Ans:

• Lumberjack: Cuts down trees for timber used in construction, furniture, and paper products.

• Papermaker: Uses wood pulp from trees to manufacture paper and cardboard.

• Forestry Worker: Manages and maintains forest areas, including planting, harvesting, and conservation tasks.

• Wildlife Photographer: Captures images of wildlife, often requiring access to natural habitats.

• Herbalist: Gathers and utilises plants for medicinal purposes, including traditional herbal remedies.

• Furrier: Processes animal pelts and hides to create clothing, accessories, and other goods.

• Beekeeper: Manages bee colonies that produce honey and beeswax, often utilizing forested areas for their hives.

• Charcoal Maker: Produces charcoal from wood, used for fuel and various industrial processes.

• Mapmaker/Surveyor: Creates maps and conducts surveys that often involve forested and wildlife areas.

• Craftsperson: Utilises wood, bamboo, and other plant materials from forests to create handmade crafts and art.

18. The Indian bio-reserve Manas is not a part of the global network of bio reserves. Is it true or false?

Ans: False. The Manas Wildlife Sanctuary in India is indeed included in the World Network of Biosphere Reserves. It was designated as a biosphere reserve by UNESCO in 1985 due to its rich biodiversity and unique ecosystems.

19. What three traits distinguish thorny forests and scrubs from one another?

Ans: Thorn forests and scrubs, typically found in arid and semi-arid regions, have the following three characteristic features:

1. Sparse Vegetation: Thorn forests and scrubs have low-density vegetation with scattered, hardy shrubs and thorny trees. This sparse growth is adapted to survive in dry conditions with limited water availability.

2. Drought-Resistant Plants: The plants in these areas are adapted to extreme conditions and are usually drought-resistant. They have features like thick, waxy leaves, and deep root systems to conserve water.

3. Low Canopy: The vegetation forms a low canopy with short, scrubby trees and bushes. The trees often have thorns or spines to protect against herbivores and reduce water loss.

20. Explain what an ecosystem is. List the elements that have the potential to cause an ecosystem to collapse.

Ans: An ecosystem is a community of living organisms (plants, animals, and microorganisms) interacting with each other and their non-living environment (such as air, water, and minerals) in a specific area. This interaction forms a complex web of relationships that sustains life within the ecosystem, involving processes like nutrient cycling, energy flow, and ecological balance.

Factors Leading to Ecosystem Destruction:

1. Deforestation: The removal of trees and vegetation disrupts habitats, leading to loss of biodiversity and altering the natural balance of ecosystems.

2. Pollution: Contamination of air, water, and soil with harmful substances can poison living organisms, disrupt food chains, and degrade habitats.

3. Climate Change: Changes in temperature, precipitation patterns, and sea levels can alter habitats and make them unsuitable for many species, leading to ecosystem collapse.

4. Overexploitation: Excessive hunting, fishing, and resource extraction deplete populations of species and disrupt ecological balance.

5. Urbanisation: Expansion of cities and infrastructure destroys natural habitats, fragments ecosystems, and reduces green spaces necessary for wildlife.

6. Invasive Species: The introduction of non-native species can outcompete, prey on, or introduce diseases to native species, disrupting the existing ecological balance.

7. Agricultural Practices: Intensive farming, use of pesticides, and monoculture crops can lead to soil degradation, loss of biodiversity, and pollution of water bodies.

8. Natural Disasters: Events like wildfires, hurricanes, and earthquakes can cause immediate and severe damage to ecosystems, although some ecosystems may recover over time.

21. The location of lichens and mosses is _________.

Ans: Tundra vegetation.

22. Compose a succinct essay about tropical deciduous forests.

Ans:

• Tropical deciduous forests, also known as monsoon forests, are characterised by trees that seasonally shed their leaves to conserve water during dry periods. Found in regions like India, Southeast Asia, Africa, and South America, these forests experience a hot, wet monsoon season followed by a dry season, with annual rainfall ranging from 1000 to 2000 mm. 

• Common trees include teak, sal, and bamboo, while the forests support diverse wildlife such as deer, elephants, tigers, and various birds and insects. 

• These forests face threats from deforestation and land conversion for agriculture and development, making sustainable management and conservation crucial for preserving their biodiversity and ecological balance.

23. What features distinguish montane forests?

Ans:

• Altitude-Dependent Vegetation: The type of vegetation changes with altitude. Lower montane forests (below 1500 meters) typically have broad-leaved evergreen trees, while higher altitudes (1500-3000 meters) support coniferous forests with pine, fir, and spruce trees.

• Cooler Temperatures: Montane forests experience cooler temperatures compared to surrounding lowland areas. The temperature decreases with increasing altitude, creating distinct ecological zones.

• High Precipitation: These forests often receive high precipitation, including rainfall and snow, which contributes to lush vegetation and dense undergrowth in lower altitudes.

• Biodiversity: Montane forests are rich in biodiversity, supporting a variety of plant and animal species adapted to cooler and wetter conditions. Common wildlife includes bears, deer, leopards, and a range of bird species.

• Soil: The soil in montane forests is typically rich in organic matter due to the accumulation of decomposed leaves and other plant material. However, the soil can be shallow and rocky in higher elevations.

• Seasonal Variation: Montane forests experience significant seasonal changes, with cold winters and mild summers. Snowfall is common at higher altitudes during winter

Important Topics of Class 9 Geography Chapter 5 Important Questions and Answers 

Important Questions of Natural Vegetation and Wildlife Class 9 focuses on types of natural vegetation found in different climatic regions and the wildlife that inhabits these areas.

Benefits of Learning with Natural Vegetation and Wildlife Class 9 Important Questions and Answers

Studying Geography Class 9 Chapter 5 Important Questions and Answers offers students several benefits.

• The PDF provides a thorough overview of various topics related to natural vegetation and wildlife. By studying these important questions and answers, students gain a deeper understanding of different types of vegetation, wildlife habitats, and conservation efforts.

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• Learning through a structured PDF format aids in better retention of information. The organised content helps students recall key concepts more easily, which is beneficial for both exams and real-life applications.

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Conclusion 

Studying the Natural Vegetation and Wildlife Class 9 Important Questions and Answers PDF offers numerous benefits for students. It not only enhances exam preparation by focusing on critical questions and concepts but also deepens understanding of diverse ecosystems and conservation issues. This structured resource helps in improving retention and conceptual clarity, enabling students to better appreciate the importance of preserving natural habitats. Additionally, it fosters a sense of responsibility towards environmental conservation.

Important Study Materials for Class 9 Geography Chapter 5

CBSE Class 9 Geography Chapter-wise Important Questions

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