Temperate forests of South India, known as ‘Sholas’ are found in which of the following hills?
1.Anaimalai
2.Nilgiris
3.Palani
Select the answer using the code given below:

The correct answer is Option 4) 1, 2, and 3.

Key Points

• The 'Shola forests' are tropical montane forests found in the high-altitude regions of the Western Ghats in South India.
• Shola forests are primarily found in the Nilgiris, Anaimalai, and Palani Hills, which are part of the Western Ghats.
• These forests are unique ecosystems consisting of grasslands and patches of stunted evergreen trees.
• The Shola forests contribute to biodiversity and are home to several endemic species of flora and fauna.
• They play a critical role in water retention and are the source of several rivers in the region.

Additional Information

• Western Ghats:
  • The Western Ghats are a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the eight "hottest hotspots" of biological diversity in the world.
  • They run parallel to the western coast of India, from Maharashtra to Kerala.
• Shola-Grassland Ecosystem:
  • This ecosystem is characterized by a mosaic of grasslands and stunted evergreen forests.
  • The term "Shola" is derived from the Tamil word "cholai," meaning a grove.
• Endemic Species:
  • Shola forests are home to unique species like the Nilgiri Tahr, Lion-tailed Macaque, and Nilgiri Langur.
  • Several species of plants, birds, and butterflies are also endemic to this region.
• Environmental Importance:
  • Shola forests act as water reservoirs, as they retain moisture and contribute to the perennial flow of rivers.
  • They also regulate the microclimate and prevent soil erosion in the Western Ghats.