OPSC OAS 2020 PrelimsOdisha SpecificQuestion 1
Solved previous year question from the OPSC OAS/OCS 2020 Preliminary Examination (General Studies), with the official answer key and a detailed explanation.
Question
Which of the following is a predominant species of the deciduous forests of Odisha ?
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Answer & Explanation
Correct answer: (C) Sal
- Sal (Shorea robusta) is the predominant species of the deciduous forests of Odisha. Sal trees are extensively found across the state, particularly in the northern and central districts, forming dense sal forests that constitute the largest share of Odisha’s forest cover.
The other options are
- (A) Mahogany — This is a tropical hardwood tree predominantly found in Central and South America, West Africa, and some parts of tropical Asia. It is not a predominant species in Odisha’s deciduous forests.
- (B) Red wood — Redwood trees (Sequoia) are native to the Pacific coast of North America, particularly California. They are among the tallest trees in the world but have no association with Indian forests.
- (D) Teak — While teak (Tectona grandis) is found in parts of Odisha, particularly in the southern and western districts, it is not the predominant species. Teak is more prominently associated with the deciduous forests of Central India (Madhya Pradesh), Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Kerala. In Odisha, sal dominates over teak.
