Analyze the regional distribution and characteristics of tropical deciduous forests in India: Statement I: Tropical moist deciduous forests thrive in regions receiving annual rainfall between 100 and 200 centimeters, featuring valuable timber species such as teak, sal, and shisham. Statement II: Tropical dry deciduous forests are found in drier areas receiving rainfall between 70 and 100 centimeters, where trees shed their entire foliage during the dry season to minimize transpirational water loss. Which of the following is correct?

💡 Solution & Explanation

Both statements are correct, reflecting the classification of deciduous forests based on precipitation gradients across the Indian subcontinent. Moist deciduous forests occupy the foothills of the Himalayas, eastern slopes of the Western Ghats, and the Chota Nagpur plateau, dominated by teak and sal. Dry deciduous forests cover extensive rain-shadow tracts of the peninsular plateau and northern plains, featuring drought-resistant species like bamboo and mahua. Tropical evergreen forests require rainfall exceeding 200 centimeters.