Theory question 206
Environmental Resources(a) Describe three characteristics of forest vegetation. (b) Outline three ways in which vegetation is important as an environmental resource. (c) Highlight two problems that may arise from over-utilization of vegetation resources.
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(a) Tall trees with closed canopies in layers; many species, often not in pure stands; evergreen broad leaves (tropical) or needle leaves (coniferous); buttress roots, climbers and epiphytes; dense undergrowth where light reaches.
(b) Source of timber, fuelwood and building materials; food, fruits and medicinal herbs; raw materials for industries (paper, furniture); protects soil from erosion; habitat for wildlife; influences climate and supplies oxygen; tourism and research.
(c) Deforestation and soil erosion; extinction of plant and animal species; desertification; disturbance of the water cycle and climate change; scarcity of fuelwood and timber.
Separate uses of vegetation from the harm of over-use.