GS PrelimsEnvironmentEcosystem2021

The vegetation of savannah consists of grassland with scattered small trees, but extensive areas have no trees. The forest development in such areas is generally kept in check by one or more or a combination of some conditions. Which of the following are such conditions? 1. Burrowing animals and termites 2. Fire 3. Grazing herbivores 4. Seasonal rainfall 5. Soil properties Select the correct answer using the code given below.

A

1 and 2

B

4 and 5

C

2, 3 and 4

D

1, 3 and 5

Correct Answer: Option C

Explanation

1. The question describes the savannah biome (grassland with scattered small trees) and asks for the conditions that generally prevent the development of dense forest. 2. Statement 1 (Burrowing animals and termites): While these organisms influence the ecosystem, they are not usually considered the primary factors preventing large-scale forest development compared to other factors. 3. Statement 2 (Fire): Frequent fires are characteristic of savannahs and play a crucial role in suppressing tree growth, especially seedlings and saplings, thus maintaining the dominance of grasses. This is a key condition. 4. Statement 3 (Grazing herbivores): Large populations of grazing herbivores consume young trees and seedlings, preventing them from establishing and contributing to the open nature of the savannah. This is another significant factor. 5. Statement 4 (Seasonal rainfall): Savannahs experience distinct wet and dry seasons. The length and severity of the dry season limit the amount of water available for tree growth, favouring drought-resistant grasses over dense forest. This climatic factor is crucial. 6. Statement 5 (Soil properties): Certain soil properties (like low nutrients or poor drainage) can limit tree growth, but the combination of fire, grazing, and seasonal rainfall are generally considered the most widespread and dominant factors keeping forest development in check across extensive areas of savannah. Based on the most widely accepted ecological factors, Fire (2), Grazing herbivores (3), and Seasonal rainfall (4) are the primary conditions.

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