What vegetation and wildlife exist in India?

India is home to a rich diversity of vegetation and wildlife, thanks to its varied climates, topography, and ecosystems. The country's vast range of habitats supports a wide variety of plant species and animal life, making it one of the most biologically diverse regions in the world.

Vegetation in India

India’s vegetation ranges from tropical forests to temperate forests and alpine meadows. The main types of vegetation include:

1. Tropical Rainforests: Found in the Western Ghats, Northeast India, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, these forests are rich in species such as teak, ebony, and rosewood.
2. Deciduous Forests: These are the most widespread forests in India, covering much of central India, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar. Common species include sal, sandalwood, and bamboo.
3. Desert Vegetation: In the Rajasthan desert and parts of Gujarat, vegetation consists of drought-resistant plants such as cacti, acacias, and screw pines.
4. Alpine Vegetation: Found in the Himalayas, these regions are home to mosses, ferns, and dwarf shrubs at higher altitudes.

Wildlife in India

India’s wildlife is equally diverse, with a variety of species spread across its forests, grasslands, wetlands, and deserts. Key species include:

1. Mammals: India is home to iconic species like the Bengal tiger, Indian elephant, Indian rhinoceros, and Asiatic lion. The snow leopard and yaks are found in the higher altitudes of the Himalayas.
2. Birds: India boasts over 1,300 species of birds, including the Indian peafowl (peacock), great Indian bustard, and black-necked stork. The Kashmir stag and Sarus crane are also found in India’s wetlands and grasslands.
3. Reptiles and Amphibians: India is home to various species of snakes, including the king cobra, Indian python, and monitor lizards. Amphibians like the Indian bullfrog and assamese rock frog are commonly found in the country’s wet regions.
4. Marine Life: India’s coastal regions are rich in marine biodiversity, including sea turtles, manta rays, and coral reefs in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Gulf of Mannar.

India's national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, like Jim Corbett National Park, Kaziranga National Park, and Sundarbans, help conserve this rich biodiversity and offer a haven for species under threat.