Forests

Choose the Correct Answer

Correct Answer : Option b

Explanation
Statement 1 is correct: Shola forests are montane tropical wet temperate forests found in the higher altitudes (above 1500m) of the Western Ghats in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. They are characterized by stunted evergreen trees with dense canopies, often found in valleys between rolling grasslands.

Statement 2 is not correct: Shola forests are evergreen forests, not deciduous. They consist of short, gnarled trees with dense foliage, often forming isolated patches in high-altitude grasslands.

Statement 3 is correct: These forests play a vital role in water retention as they are located in the catchment areas of many rivers such as the Cauvery, Vaigai, and Periyar. The sponge-like soil in these forests helps in the gradual release of water, ensuring perennial river flow.