Tropical Dry Deciduous Forests are a transitional type of forest between moist deciduous and thorn forests on the wetter side and thorn forests on the drier side. They thrive in harsh and highly fluctuating climates marked by low annual rainfall, 5-6 dry months per year, and nutrient-depleted soil.
Climatic Conditions
- Annual rainfall is 100-150 cm.
Characteristics
- These are similar to moist deciduous forests and shed their leaves in dry season.
- The major difference is that they can grow in areas of comparatively less rainfall.
- They represent a transitional type – moist deciduous on the wetter side and thorn forests on the drier side.
- They have a closed but uneven canopy.
- The forests are composed of a mixture of a few species of deciduous trees rising up to a height of 20 metres.
- Undergrowth: Enough light reaches the ground to permit the growth of grass and climbers.
Soil
- The soil of these forest is generally nutrient-poor.
- Alfisols and Ultisols make up the majority of the soils in this area.
- The soils of tropical dry deciduous forests are old and less fertile.
- But because there is a dry season, more nutrients can be retaine.
Importance of Tropical Dry Deciduous Forest
- Tropical dry deciduous forests are vital to rural livelihoods, especially for the low income people.
- Tropical dry deciduous forests and woodlands contribute to the direct provision of numerous products, including timber and non-timber forest products, in addition to their roles in maintaining resilient and multi-functional landscapes.
- These products are shown to help people supplement their incomes and alleviate poverty.
- They are especially important as a safety net during adverse situations when other economic activities are affected by the regular droughts.
- A wide range of these products are collected, either for personal consumption or to make a little amount of cash.
- Drought-prone animals rely on the forest for fodder.
Also Read : Tropical Moist Deciduous Forests
