2013 Q. 55 Set A
Geography
World Geography

Which of the following is/are unique characteristic/characteristics of equatorial forests?

  1. Presence of tall, closely set trees with crowns forming a continuous canopy
  2. Coexistence of a large number of species
  3. Presence of numerous varieties of epiphytes

Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

Smart Elimination

Visualize a thick jungle (like the Amazon). The trees are very tall to fight for light. Plants grow on the trees to reach the sun. There are thousands of different animals. All statements describe a thick jungle.

Answer Key & Explanation

Answer: D

The correct answer is Option D.

Analysis of Equatorial Forests (Tropical Rainforests):

  1. Tall Trees & Canopy: Due to intense competition for sunlight, trees grow very tall, and their crowns interlock to form a thick, continuous canopy. (Correct)
  2. Biodiversity: These forests have the highest biodiversity on Earth. A large number of species coexist in a small area. (Correct)
  3. Epiphytes: Plants (like orchids, ferns) that grow on other plants to reach sunlight are very common due to the dense shade on the forest floor. (Correct)

Value Addition

  • Stratification: Vertical layering of vegetation is distinct (Forest floor, Understory, Canopy, Emergent layer).
  • Soil: Generally poor (lateritic) because nutrients are locked in the biomass.

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Difficulty Assessment
easy

Foundational question based on core concepts.

Global Importance Score
7 / 10
Based on analysis of this topic across 2011-2025.