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.
1 and 2
4 and 5
2, 3 and 4
1, 3 and 5
Answer is Wrong!
Answer is Right!
This question was previously asked in
UPSC IAS – 2021
– Fire (2) is a major factor, as seasonal dry periods make savannas prone to fires that kill young trees and favor fire-resistant grasses.
– Grazing herbivores (3) consume young trees and shrubs, preventing them from establishing and growing into mature trees.
– Seasonal rainfall (4), particularly the prolonged dry season, creates water stress that limits tree growth and increases fire frequency, contributing to the maintenance of the savanna structure.
– Soil properties (5) can influence vegetation, but fire, grazing, and climate (seasonal rainfall patterns) are generally regarded as the dominant factors preventing savanna from transitioning into forest.