UPSC Prelims 2008 Q22: Geography – Biogeography & Natural Vegetation
Which one of the following is not essentially a species of the Himalayan vegetation?
- (a) Juniper
- (b) Mahogany
- (c) Silver fir
- (d) Spruce
Answer: (b) Mahogany
Explanation
Which species is NOT essentially Himalayan vegetation
Among these four plant species, three are characteristic Himalayan conifers, while one is not native to the region.
| Option | Verdict | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| (a) Juniper | Is Himalayan | A genuine Himalayan conifer species |
| (b) Mahogany | NOT Himalayan | Mahogany is primarily associated with tropical regions (native to Central/South America, also grown in parts of India as an introduced species), not essentially Himalayan vegetation |
| (c) Silver fir | Is Himalayan | A genuine Himalayan conifer species |
| (d) Spruce | Is Himalayan | A genuine Himalayan conifer species |
Himalayan vegetation facts:
| Point | Detail |
|---|---|
| Genuine Himalayan conifers | Juniper, Silver fir, Spruce |
| NOT essentially Himalayan | Mahogany — a tropical, largely introduced species |
Answer: (b) Mahogany.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. Juniper is indeed a genuine Himalayan conifer species.
- (b) CORRECT. Mahogany is primarily a tropical species, not essentially Himalayan vegetation.
- (c) Incorrect. Silver fir is indeed a genuine Himalayan species.
- (d) Incorrect. Spruce is also indeed a genuine Himalayan species.
Key point
Mahogany is primarily a tropical species, NOT essentially Himalayan vegetation — unlike Juniper, Silver fir, and Spruce, all genuine Himalayan conifers.
Remember
Mahogany is NOT essentially a Himalayan vegetation species — unlike Juniper, Silver fir, and Spruce.
Common mistakes
- Assuming all four listed trees are automatically native Himalayan species without checking each individually.
- Not knowing Mahogany's actual tropical origin, distinct from Himalayan conifers.
- Confusing introduced/cultivated species with naturally occurring Himalayan flora.
Exam tip
Juniper, Silver fir, and Spruce = genuine Himalayan conifers. Mahogany = a tropical species, not essentially Himalayan.
Sources
- H. G. Champion and S. K. Seth — A Revised Survey of the Forest Types of India (Government of India, 1968)
- NCERT Class XI Geography — India: Physical Environment — Natural Vegetation