Natural Vegetation and Wildlife: A Tapestry of Life on Earth

Earth, with its plethora of climates and terrains, is home to an astounding variety of plants and animals. Chapter 6 of the NCERT Grade 7 Social Science textbook invites us to explore this verdant world of natural vegetation and wildlife, illuminating the intrinsic relationships between them and the environments they inhabit.

1. What is Natural Vegetation?

• Definition: Refers to the plant life that hasn’t been altered by humans and grows in accordance with the climate of the region.

• Classification: Ranges from forests, grasslands, deserts, to wetlands.

2. Types of Natural Vegetation

• Tropical Evergreen Forests: Found near the equator, these forests remain green throughout the year. Rich in diverse species like ebony, mahogany, and rosewood.

• Tropical Deciduous Forests: Known as monsoon forests, they shed leaves in dry season. Teak, sal, and bamboo are predominant.

• Temperate Forests: Located in mid-latitudinal coastal regions. Oak, pine, and eucalyptus are common.

• Mediterranean Vegetation: Seen in areas around the Mediterranean Sea. Olive and citrus fruits like oranges and figs thrive here.

• Tundra Vegetation: Encountered near polar regions. Mosses, lichens, and few shrubs are adapted to this cold environment.

3. The Vibrant World of Wildlife

• Definition: All non-domesticated animals living in natural habitats.

• Diversity: From the mighty elephants of Asian jungles, graceful deer in temperate forests, to the polar bears in the Arctic.

4. Adaptation to Environment

• Flora: Plants adapt to their environment in fascinating ways. For instance, cactus in deserts have spines to reduce water loss.

• Fauna: Animals too show remarkable adaptability. Polar bears have thick fur and fat to survive icy cold conditions.

5. Biodiversity Hotspots

• What are they?: Regions with a wealth of species which are endemic (only found in that region). They are vital for conservation.

• Examples: Western Ghats in India, Amazon rainforest in South America.

6. The Vital Role of Forests

• Lungs of the Earth: Forests absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, purifying the air.

• Biodiversity Reservoirs: They house numerous species and maintain ecological balance.

• Economic Value: Many products like timber, gum, and medicinal plants are forest-derived.

7. Threats to Natural Vegetation and Wildlife

• Deforestation: The rampant cutting down of trees affects both flora and fauna.

• Poaching: Illegal hunting and trade of animal parts endanger many species.

• Climate Change: Alters habitats and affects the distribution of species.

8. Conservation Efforts

• National Parks & Sanctuaries: Protected areas where flora and fauna are preserved.

• Legislations: Laws like the Wildlife Protection Act help curb poaching.

• Awareness: Educating people about the importance of biodiversity and its conservation.

Conclusion: The Interwoven Web of Life

Chapter 6 instills an appreciation for the incredible biodiversity on Earth and underscores the pressing need for conservation. It reminds us that each species, be it flora or fauna, plays a unique role in the ecological tapestry, and preserving them is not just a duty but a necessity for a sustainable future.

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