SSC Selection Post 2022 PYQ — Question 42

The correct answer is Option 3 i.e. Montane forests 

Silver fir, junipers, pines, and birches commonly belong to Montane forests in India. These forests are typically found in mountainous regions like the Himalayas, where the altitude ranges between 1,000 to 3,000 meters. Montane forests are divided into two types: temperate forests (found between 1,500 to 3,000 meters) and alpine forests (above 3,000 meters). Trees like silver fir, pine, and birch thrive in the cool climate and higher elevations of the temperate zones. These forests are characterized by coniferous and broad-leaved trees, adapted to withstand colder temperatures and occasional snowfall. Unlike tropical evergreen or mangrove forests, montane vegetation is unique to high-altitude environments and plays a key role in preserving ecological balance and biodiversity in hilly terrains.