Natural vegetation in India: Types/ Characteristics/ Distribution

Type of vegetation 

Characteristics 

Distribution 

Tropical evergreen forests 

Found in regions with high rainfall throughout the year. Rich biodiversity with a dense canopy and numerous species of trees in a multi-layered structure

Western Ghats (Malabar Coast), Andaman and Nicobar Islands, parts of north-eastern states (Assam, Meghalaya).

Tropical deciduous forests 

Experiences distinct wet and dry seasons, losing leaves during the dry period. Moderate to high biodiversity with a mix of deciduous and evergreen species. Stratified vegetation with emergent, canopy, and understory layers.

Central India, parts of Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, parts of Maharashtra, northern Andhra Pradesh.

Thorn forests and scrubs

Found in arid and semi-arid regions with low rainfall. Adapted to withstand water scarcity, with thorny shrubs and small trees. Limited biodiversity and often interspersed with grasslands.

Rajasthan, Gujarat, parts of Haryana, Punjab, and the Deccan Plateau.

Montane forest 

Found in mountainous regions at varying altitudes. Include sub-alpine and temperate vegetation types. Coniferous trees dominate higher elevations, while broad-leaved trees are found at lower elevations.

Western Himalayas (pine, deodar, fir), Eastern Himalayas (rhododendron, oak), Nilgiri Hills

Mangrove forest 

Coastal ecosystems influenced by tides, with trees adapted to saline conditions. Provide a buffer against coastal erosion and support diverse marine life.

Sundarbans Delta (West Bengal), parts of Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Alpine vegetation 

Found in high-altitude regions above the tree line. Comprises grasses, mosses, and low-growing shrubs adapted to harsh climates.

Higher reaches of the Himalayas, including regions in Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.