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Q76
(NDA-I/2024)
Geography › World Physical Geography
Official Key
Consider the following characteristics of a grassland : 1. An extensive area of mid latitude grasslands are devoid of trees and shrubs. 2. The climate is characterised by hot summers, cold winters and relatively low rainfall occurring mainly in spring and summer. 3. In humid parts, grasses grow to a meter or more in height. On the basis of the above characteristics, select the correct grassland from the options given below :
Explanation
The characteristics described point to the Steppes, which are temperate (mid-latitude) grasslands located in the interiors of large landmasses, particularly Eurasia. These regions are defined by a continental climate, which explains the extreme temperature range of hot summers and very cold winters.
- Treeless Nature: Because the annual rainfall is relatively low (typically 25–50 cm) and evaporation is high, the environment is naturally devoid of trees and shrubs, except along river banks.
- Precipitation: Rainfall is light and occurs mainly during the spring and summer months, which is essential for grass growth.
- Vegetation: While Steppes are often associated with short-grass vegetation, in more humid transitional areas (closer to forest-steppes), the grasses can grow to a meter or more in height.
While Prairies and Pampas are also temperate grasslands, the specific emphasis on being "devoid of trees" and the extreme continental temperature profile is most characteristic of the Steppe biome.
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