Correct Answer: Option A — Tropical Thorn Forest. Tropical Thorn Forest is correctly identified as a xerophytic formation of thorny trees and shrubs. Tropical Thorn Forest is also associated with prominent in arid and semi-arid parts of Rajasthan, Gujarat and the Deccan interior. Another identifying fact about Tropical Thorn Forest is that acacia, babul, khejri and cactus-like succulents are typical. A further exam-relevant fact about Tropical Thorn Forest is that small leaves, thorns and deep roots help conserve water. Why the other options are incorrect: • Option B — Montane Forest: Montane Forest is vegetation that changes with altitude on mountain slopes. It is incorrect here because Montane Forest is instead associated with well developed across different altitudinal belts of the Himalayas. • Option C — Mangrove Forest: Mangrove Forest is salt-tolerant tidal forest of tropical coasts and deltas. It is incorrect here because Mangrove Forest is instead associated with extensive formations occur in the Sundarbans and several east-coast deltas. • Option D — Shola Forest: Shola Forest is a tropical montane evergreen forest occurring in valley patches. It is incorrect here because Shola Forest is instead associated with characteristic of the higher Western Ghats of southern India. Exam Takeaway: Connect Tropical Thorn Forest with “a xerophytic formation of thorny trees and shrubs” and “prominent in arid and semi-arid parts of Rajasthan, Gujarat and the Deccan interior” for revision.
