Prelims 2021 · Geography · Question 60
"Leaf litter decomposes faster than in any other biome and as a result the soil surface is often almost bare. Apart from trees, the vegetation is largely composed of plant forms that reach up into the canopy vicariously, by climbing the trees or growing as epiphytes, rooted on the upper branches of trees." This is the most likely description of
Answer
tropical rain forest
- (a) Coniferous forest: Needle-leaf forests of cold regions have slow decomposition due to low temperatures; thick litter often accumulates. Verdict: Incorrect.
- (b) Dry deciduous forest: These forests shed leaves seasonally, but they do not typically have abundant climbers and epiphytes reaching the canopy. Verdict: Incorrect.
- (c) Mangrove forest: Mangroves are tidal, saline coastal forests with specialized roots; the description of rapid litter decay and many epiphytes/climbers is not typical. Verdict: Incorrect.
- (d) Tropical rain forest: Warm, wet conditions cause very rapid decomposition, leaving little leaf litter; dense canopy, lianas, and epiphytes are classic features. Verdict: Correct.