🌍 GeographyUPSC 2014Soil

If you travel through the Himalayas, you are likely to see which of the following plants are naturally growing there?1. Oak2. Rhododendron3. SandalwoodSelect the correct answer using the code given below.

a1 and 2 only
b3 only
c1 and 3 only
d1, 2 and 3
✓ Correct answer: a) 1 and 2 only
ExplanationThe Himalayan ecosystem exhibits distinct vegetation zones based on altitude and climate.Statement 1 is correct: Oak trees dominate the temperate broadleaf forests of the Himalayas.They are typically found between 1,500–3,000 meters.Common species include Quercus leucotrichophora (Banj Oak) in the western Himalayas (Uttara- khand, Himachal Pradesh) and Quercus semecarpifolia (Kharsu Oak) at higher elevations.Oak forests play a key role in soil con- servation and water retention, making them ecologically vital.Statement 2 is correct: Coniferous trees like Rhododendron, pine, deodar, silver fir, spruce and cedar, are found in the temper- ate forests (1500 and 3000 metres).Some key species include Rhododendron arboreum (Buransh), found in Uttarakhand and Sikkim, and Rhododendron hodgsonii, which thrives in Arunachal Pradesh and Meghalaya.The vibrant flowers con- tribute to pollination cycles and biodiversity.Statement 3 is incorrect: Sandalwood does not naturally grow in the Himalayas.It is native to tropical dry deciduous for- ests.It is primarily found in Karnataka, Tamil Na

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