Question

Vegetation of Rajasthan is
A. Xerophytic
B. Alpine
C. Arctic
D. Deciduous

Answer 1

Rajasthan is a state situated in the north-western part of India. It is the largest state of India and covers the area of 342,239 square kilometres (10% of total area of the country). It comprises a large desert, Thar Desert which is also called the “Great Indian Desert”.

Complete answer:
The vegetation of Rajasthan is categorised as Natural Desert Thorn Forest. Most of the area of Rajasthan has sandy soil and bare rocks are exposed. The vegetation there is of xerophytic type because of the desert; plants have to adapt themselves to survive in that environment and to minimize water loss.
Plants commonly found in Rajasthan are khair, cactus, cassia, beri, eucalyptus, phog, babul, jojoba, acacia, and khejri. Xerophytes are those plants that grow in dry habitats such as desert or areas covered with snow. In India Rajasthan and Gujarat are the main spots having xerophytic vegetation.

So the correct option is (A) Xerophytic.

Additional Information: Xerophytes are plants that require little water for their growth. The morphology as well as physiology of these plants is modified in such a way to conserve water, minimizing water loss. Some xerophytic plants have the ability to store large amounts of water, while others can survive in driest conditions. Their leaves are always covered with a thick waxy layer to present water loss through transpiration. Leaves are also sometimes modified into thorns or spines for the same purpose.

Note: Most of the area present in Rajasthan is desert; still the small forest area has a variety of fauna and flora. These forest areas are found as small scattered clumps which are present in an open form. Their size and density increase starting from west to east.