Question

Give reasons for the following.

There is a distinct difference between the natural vegetation found on the western and eastern slope of western ghat.

Answer 1

There is a distinct difference between the natural vegetation on the two slopes of the Western Ghats due to the following reasons:

1. Variation in Rainfall (Orographic Effect): Because the western slopes confront moisture-laden Southwest Monsoon winds (on the windward side), they receive high rainfall (more than 250 cm). The eastern slopes are in the rain-shadow zone (leeward side) and receive significantly less rainfall (less than 100 cm).
2. Difference in Forest Types: Because of abundant moisture, the western slopes support lush tropical evergreen forests that are green all year. The drier eastern slopes are dominated by tropical deciduous forests and thorn scrubs, which shed their leaves in the summer.
3. Microclimatic Conditions: The western side has high relative humidity and moderate temperatures, ideal for broad-leaved rainforest trees, but the eastern side has higher summer temperatures and lesser humidity, limiting lush plant growth.