Vegetation of Sikkim for Sikkim PSC

<<–2/”>a >em>Vegetation of Sikkim

Sikkim provides a great variety of habitats, that support and sustains rich Flora and Fauna.
The Vegetation of Sikkim changes from tropical to subtropical upwards through middle hills with much coniferous and Oak forests of temperate character to the higher slopes with sub alpine scrub and alpine “meadows” generally related to higher alpine flora of the north temperate zone.
Sikkim has been known to be the most humid region in the whole range of Himalaya, because of its proximity to the Bay of Bengal and direct exposure to the south-west monsoon.
The annual rainfall ranges from 200 – 500 cm in most of its inner valleys except for its northern most region which receives scanty rainfall.
Throughout the year, but particularly from June to September, monsoon brings heavy rainfall to the state.
Lower hills and valleys enjoy a sub tropical Climate, warm in winter, hot and extremely humid in summer.
Towards interior the climate becomes gradually more temperate.

Flowering Plants of Sikkim

Sikkim is one of the Biodiversity-2/”>Biodiversity rich states of our country.
The flowering plant diversity Sof the state with some indicative figures of dominant genera like Bulbophyllum, Calanthe, Coelogyne, Cymbidium, Dendrobium, Gentiana, Juncus, Pedicularis, Primula, Rhododendron and Swertia recorded from the region.
Nearly 165 species have been named after the state, as they were first collected from the state or plants were known to occur in Vegetation of Sikkim.
Some of the representative endemic species of the state have also been listed.
One hundred ninety seven families, 1371 genera have been appended with indicative number of species of each genus known to occur in Vegetation of Sikkim.
In all more than 4450 species of flowering plants recorded so far.

Biodiversity of Vegetation of Sikkim

India is recognized as one of the 12 mega diversity centres of the world. Out of the 18 Biodiversity hot-spots in the world, India owns 2, namely the Western Ghats and the Eastern Himalayas.
Sikkim covering just 0.2 % of the geographical area of the country has tremendous biodiversity and has been identified as one of the HOT-SPOT in the Eastern Himalayas.
There are 10 bio-geographic zones & 25 biotic provinces— which have 16 major forests types & > 200 sub types as per (Champion & Seth 1968).
Sikkim falls under Himalayan (2) Bio-geographic zone & Central Himalaya (2c) biotic province—-having about 9 types of forests types (Champion & Seth).
The State is endowed with rich floral and faunal diversity. Species wise, the State harbors over 4500 flowering plants, 550 Orchids, 36 Rhododendrons, 16 Conifers, 28 Bamboos, 362 Ferns and its allies, 9 Tree Ferns, 30 Primulas, 11 Oaks, over 424 Medicinal plants, 144+ mammals, 550 Birds, 48 Fishes and over 600 Butterflies.
While these figures are still not absolute, it may be kept in mind that this is only the mega-fauna and flora.
The tremendous diversity of insects like beetles and moths as well as a host of other life forms is yet to be enumerated.
Most of the high altitude medicinal plants are rare and endangered species.
Sikkim also has 28 Mountains/Peaks, more than 80 Glaciers, 227 high altitude lakes/wetlands and over 104 rivers and streams.
Nature has been particularly generous in her gift of sylvan treasures to the state of Sikkim.
Luxuriant forest, abound in all part of state and variety of medicinal plants, herbs, shrubs, bamboos and trees growing in state is truly rich.
In the forest, there are number of plants whose medicinal values have been well recognized by local people as well as by different pharmaceutical, insecticidal and perfumery sectors.
Medicinal plants ought to be given the status of a “National Resources” because their sustained availability is essential to sustain one of the world’s oldest medicinal traditions, a priceless legacy of the Indian people.
The local inhabitants for treatment of various ailments use numerous herbal remedies.
Modern medicines owes to the flora of these mountains.
Many inhabitants for treatment of various ailments use numerous herbal remedies.
Many species of Himalayan origin have revolutionized the allopathic systems of medicine

Forest and Forestry of Vegetation of Sikkim

Forest is one of the richest Natural Resources of Vegetation of Sikkim.
With luxuriant forest abounding in all part of state, Forestry has been the major land use in the State and 82.31% of the total geographical area of the State is under the administrative control of the State Forest Department.
The total forest and tree cover of the State is 3392 sq. km (47.80% of the total geographical area of the state).
The composition ranges from tropical Dry Deciduous Forests with Sal and its associates in the valleys of Teesta and Rangit to the Alpine Scrub and Grassland in high altitude.

Forest Type of Vegetation of Sikkim


*S.No.*	*Groups*	*Characteristic of Species*	*Altitude (Mts)*	*Places*
1.	Tropical Moist Deciduous Forest
	Tropical Moist Deciduous Forest	1. Dillenia pentagyna 2. Dysoxylum floribundum 3. Gymnema arborea 4. Lagerostroemia patviflora 5. Shorea robusta 6. Toona ciliata	250-900	Rangpo Chhu, Sherwani, Jorethang, Rangit
2.	Sub-Tropical Forest
	Sub-Tropical Broad Leaved Forest	1. Albizia procera, 2. Alnus Nepalensis, 3. Bauhinia purpurea 4. Castanopsis Indica, 5. Macaranga denticulate 6. Michelia champaca, 7. Schima wallichii	1000-2000	Tong,Gyalzing, Sangklang Selem Chakung Chhu.
	ii)Sub Tropical Pine forests	1. Pinus roxburghii, 2. Engelhardtia colebrookiana 3. Quercus leucotrichophora	1000-1800	Gangtok, Gyalzing, Rongli
3.	Montantane Wet Temperate Forest
	i)Temperate Broad Leaved Forests	1. Acer campbellii, 2. Engelhardtia spicata, 3. Machilus edulis, 4. Michelia cathcartii, 5. Quercus lamellose, 6. Taxus baccata	1700-2700	Chunthang- Lachung, Yumthang
	ii)Mixed Coniferous temperate forest Forest	1. Abies densa, 2. Acer campbellii, 3. Betula utiis, 4. Rhododendron, arboreum, 5. Abies densa, 6. Taxus baccata, 7. Tsuga dumosa, 8. Larix griffithianum	2700-3000	Lachen, Zemu, Yathang, Lachung
4.	Sub-Alpine Forest
	Sub-Alpine Forest	1. Abies densa, 2. Betula utiis 3. Casiope fastigata 4. Rhododendron sp.	Above 3000	Above Yathang
5.	Moist Alpine
	i) Birch- Rhododendron Scrub Forest	1. Betula utilis, 2. Sorbus foliolosa, 3. Rhododendron campanulatum,	Above 3600	Thangu, Maiminchu
	ii) Deciduous Alpine Scrub	1. Betula utilis, 2. Berberis sp., 3. Lonicera sp., 4. Rosa sp	3600-3900	Changu Thangu
	iii) Dwarf Rhododen ron Scrub	1. Rhododendron lepidotum	Above 3600	Thangu
	iv) Alpine pastures	1. Allium, 2. Anemone, 3. Delphinium	Above 4000	Chopta Yumasong
	b) Dry Alpine Scrub
	i) Dwarf Juniperous scrub	1. Juniperusrecurva 2. J. wallichiana	Above 3600	Chopta Chhangu
	ii) Dry alpine scrub	1. Ephedra gerardiana, 2. Meconopsis sp., 3. Ribes sp.	Above 4000	Chopta

The vegetation of Sikkim is a diverse and complex ecosystem, with a wide range of plant life. The following are some of the subtopics that you may be asked about on the Sikkim PSC exam:

The different types of vegetation found in Sikkim
The distribution of vegetation in Sikkim
The factors that influence the distribution of vegetation in Sikkim
The importance of vegetation in Sikkim
The threats to vegetation in Sikkim
The conservation of vegetation in Sikkim

Here is a more detailed description of each subtopic:

The different types of vegetation found in Sikkim: The vegetation of Sikkim can be divided into four main types: the tropical forests, the temperate forests, the alpine forests, and the grasslands. The tropical forests are found in the lower elevations of the state, while the temperate forests are found in the middle elevations. The alpine forests are found in the higher elevations, and the grasslands are found in the valleys.
The distribution of vegetation in Sikkim: The distribution of vegetation in Sikkim is determined by a number of factors, including the altitude, the climate, and the Soil type. The tropical forests are found in the lower elevations, where the climate is warm and humid. The temperate forests are found in the middle elevations, where the climate is cooler and drier. The alpine forests are found in the higher elevations, where the climate is cold and dry. The grasslands are found in the valleys, where the climate is warm and humid.
The factors that influence the distribution of vegetation in Sikkim: The following are some of the factors that influence the distribution of vegetation in Sikkim:
- The altitude: The altitude is one of the most important factors that influence the distribution of vegetation in Sikkim. The higher the altitude, the colder the climate and the less vegetation there is.
- The climate: The climate is another important factor that influences the distribution of vegetation in Sikkim. The climate of Sikkim varies from tropical to alpine, and this variation in climate is reflected in the diversity of vegetation found in the state.
- The soil type: The soil type is also an important factor that influences the distribution of vegetation in Sikkim. The different Soil Types found in Sikkim support different types of vegetation.
The importance of vegetation in Sikkim: Vegetation is important for a number of reasons, including:
- It provides food and shelter for animals.
- It helps to regulate the climate.
- It helps to prevent soil erosion.
- It helps to purify the air.
- It is a source of medicine and other products.
The threats to vegetation in Sikkim: The following are some of the threats to vegetation in Sikkim:
- Deforestation: Deforestation is the biggest threat to vegetation in Sikkim. Trees are cut down for timber, fuel, and agriculture.
- Mining: Mining also threatens vegetation in Sikkim. The mining process can damage the soil and pollute the water, which can kill plants.
- Climate Change: Climate change is also a threat to vegetation in Sikkim. The changing climate is causing the glaciers to melt, which is leading to flooding and landslides. This can damage vegetation and displace animals.
The conservation of vegetation in Sikkim: The following are some of the ways to conserve vegetation in Sikkim:
- Planting trees: Planting trees is one of the best ways to conserve vegetation in Sikkim. Trees help to regulate the climate, prevent soil erosion, and purify the air.
- Reducing deforestation: Reducing deforestation is another important way to conserve vegetation in Sikkim. Trees should only be cut down when it is absolutely necessary.
- Protecting wildlife: Protecting wildlife is also important for conserving vegetation in Sikkim. Animals help to spread seeds and pollinate plants.
- Raising awareness: Raising awareness about the importance of vegetation is also important for conserving vegetation in Sikkim. People need to understand the threats to vegetation and the importance of conservation.

The vegetation of Sikkim is a vital part of the state’s ecosystem. It provides food and shelter for animals, helps to regulate the climate, and prevents soil erosion. However, the vegetation of Sikkim is under threat from deforestation, mining, and climate change. It is important to conserve the vegetation of Sikkim by planting trees, reducing deforestation, protecting wildlife, and raising awareness about the importance of vegetation.

1. What is the climate of Sikkim?

Sikkim has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. The summer months are warm and humid, while the winter months are cold and dry. The monsoon season is from June to September, and the winter season is from December to February.

2. What are the major rivers of Sikkim?

The major rivers of Sikkim are the Teesta, Rangit, and Yamuna. The Teesta is the largest river in Sikkim, and it flows through the state from west to east. The Rangit is the second largest river in Sikkim, and it flows through the state from north to south. The Yamuna is a tributary of the Ganges, and it flows through the state from east to west.

3. What are the major mountains of Sikkim?

The major mountains of Sikkim are Kanchenjunga, Everest, and Makalu. Kanchenjunga is the third highest mountain in the world, and it is located on the border between Sikkim and Nepal. Everest is the highest mountain in the world, and it is located on the border between Nepal and China. Makalu is the fifth highest mountain in the world, and it is located on the border between Nepal and China.

4. What are the major forests of Sikkim?

The major forests of Sikkim are the Eastern Himalayan broadleaf forests, the Eastern Himalayan subalpine conifer forests, and the Eastern Himalayan alpine shrub and meadows. The Eastern Himalayan broadleaf forests are found in the lower elevations of Sikkim, and they are home to a variety of trees, including sal, teak, and bamboo. The Eastern Himalayan subalpine conifer forests are found in the higher elevations of Sikkim, and they are home to a variety of trees, including fir, spruce, and larch. The Eastern Himalayan alpine shrub and meadows are found in the highest elevations of Sikkim, and they are home to a variety of plants, including rhododendrons, gentians, and primulas.

5. What are the major wildlife of Sikkim?

The major wildlife of Sikkim includes the snow leopard, the red panda, the takin, the musk deer, and the Himalayan tahr. The snow leopard is a large cat that is found in the high mountains of Sikkim. The red panda is a small mammal that is found in the forests of Sikkim. The takin is a large goat-antelope that is found in the mountains of Sikkim. The musk deer is a small deer that is found in the forests of Sikkim. The Himalayan tahr is a large wild goat that is found in the mountains of Sikkim.

6. What are the major tourist attractions of Sikkim?

The major tourist attractions of Sikkim include the Nathu La Pass, the Yumthang Valley, the Gangtok Palace, and the Tsomgo Lake. The Nathu La Pass is a mountain pass that connects Sikkim to China. The Yumthang Valley is a valley that is located in the Himalayas. The Gangtok Palace is a palace that is located in the capital city of Sikkim. The Tsomgo Lake is a lake that is located in the Himalayas.

7. What are the major festivals of Sikkim?

The major festivals of Sikkim include the Losar Festival, the Dussehra Festival, and the Diwali Festival. The Losar Festival is a Buddhist festival that is celebrated in the new year. The Dussehra Festival is a Hindu festival that is celebrated in the month of October. The Diwali Festival is a Hindu festival that is celebrated in the month of November.

8. What are the major languages spoken in Sikkim?

The major languages spoken in Sikkim are Nepali, Sikkimese, and Bhutia. Nepali is the most widely spoken language in Sikkim. Sikkimese is a Tibeto-Burman language that is spoken by the Sikkimese people. Bhutia is a Tibeto-Burman language that is spoken by the Bhutia people.

9. What is the religion of Sikkim?

The majority of the people in Sikkim are Buddhist. There are also a significant number of Hindus and Christians in Sikkim.

10. What is the economy of Sikkim?

The economy of Sikkim is based on agriculture, tourism, and hydropower. Agriculture is the main Source Of Income for the people of Sikkim. Tourism is a major source of income for the government of Sikkim. Hydropower is a major source of electricity for the people of Sikkim.

Sikkim is a state in the northeastern region of India. It is bordered by Bhutan to the north, China to the east, Nepal to the west, and West Bengal to the south. The capital of Sikkim is Gangtok.
Sikkim is a mountainous state with a diverse landscape. The northern part of the state is home to the Himalayas, while the southern part is home to the foothills of the Himalayas. The state is also home to a number of rivers, including the Teesta River, the Rangit River, and the Yamuna River.
The climate of Sikkim varies depending on the altitude. The northern part of the state has a cold climate, while the southern part of the state has a warm climate. The Average temperature in Sikkim ranges from 10 degrees Celsius in the winter to 30 degrees Celsius in the summer.
The vegetation of Sikkim is also diverse. The northern part of the state is home to coniferous forests, while the southern part of the state is home to deciduous forests. The state is also home to a number of alpine meadows and grasslands.
Sikkim is home to a number of ethnic groups, including the Lepcha, the Bhutia, the Gurung, the Magar, and the Nepali. The Official Language of Sikkim is Nepali, but English is also widely spoken.
Sikkim is a popular tourist destination. The state is home to a number of tourist attractions, including the Nathu La Pass, the Yumthang Valley, and the Kanchenjunga National Park.
Sikkim is a beautiful and diverse state with a rich history and culture. It is a popular tourist destination and a great place to live, work, and raise a family.

Here are some MCQs on the topics of Sikkim:

Which of the following is not a border state of Sikkim?
(A) Bhutan
(B) China
(C) Nepal
(D) West Bengal
The capital of Sikkim is:
(A) Gangtok
(B) Darjeeling
(C) Kalimpong
(D) Siliguri
The climate of Sikkim is:
(A) Hot and humid
(B) Cold and dry
(C) Temperate
(D) Tropical
The vegetation of Sikkim is:
(A) Coniferous forests
(B) Deciduous forests
(C) Alpine meadows and grasslands
(D) All of the above
The official language of Sikkim is:
(A) Nepali
(B) English
(C) Hindi
(D) Bengali
Sikkim is home to a number of ethnic groups, including:
(A) The Lepcha
(B) The Bhutia
(C) The Gurung
(D) All of the above
Sikkim is a popular tourist destination. Some of the tourist attractions in Sikkim include:
(A) The Nathu La Pass
(B) The Yumthang Valley
(C) The Kanchenjunga National Park
(D) All of the above
Sikkim is a beautiful and diverse state with a rich history and culture. It is a popular tourist destination and a great place to live, work, and raise a family.