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UPSC Prelims 2013 · Environment · Nature’s Machinery
Which of the following is/are unique characteristic/characteristics of equatorial forests? Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
- Presence of tall, closely set trees with crowns forming a continuous canopy
- Coexistence of a large number of species
- Presence of numerous varieties of epiphytes
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
All three describe the equatorial forest.
Statement by statement
1. ✓ CORRECT Tall trees form a closed canopy 30–45 m up, with emergents above.
2. ✓ CORRECT A hectare can hold 100–300 tree species.
3. ✓ CORRECT Orchids, ferns and bromeliads grow on branches to reach light.
The idea
Heat and rain all year mean plants never stop growing and never shed all their leaves together. The result is an evergreen forest with a closed roof and a very large number of species mixed together.
Rain and warmth all year → Non-stop growth → Tall evergreen trees, closed canopy → Many species mixed together, few of one kind in one place → Epiphytes and climbers reach for light
Also know
Because trees of one kind stand far apart, commercial logging here is difficult, unlike the pure stands of conifers in cold lands. Valuable hardwoods of this forest: mahogany, ebony, rosewood.
🔒 Equatorial forest: closed canopy + highest species richness + epiphytes and lianas.