Question

Answer the following question in detail.
Give an account of the Natural Vegetation of Rajasthan Plain.

Answer 1

• The natural vegetation of Rajasthan plain is classified as Northern Desert Thorn Forest. Since the whole region is largely sandy and bare rocks are exposed, the vegetal cover is very thin and there are only a few small trees. Density and size of patches increase from west to east following the increase in rainfall.
• The natural vegetation of Rajasthan Desert is composed of tree, shrub and herb species. Shrubs are thorny and have a stunted growth due to scanty rainfall. Khip bush with long needle shape branches without leaves is common in sandy soils. Evergreen bushes like Khair, phog, beri, kherjri and cactus are found in some places. Babul is one of the best fodder trees of this region and it grows even under arid climatic and sandy conditions.
• Local tree species suitable for planting in the desert region are very few and these are slow growing. Many exotic tree species of Eucalyptus, Acacia and Cassia have been tried in Rajasthan Desert. Israeli Babul and the jojoba trees of economic value are suitable for planting in these areas.
• Due to the diversified habitat and ecosystem, the vegetation, human culture and animal life in this arid region are very rich in contrast to the other deserts of the world.