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Difficulty: MediumMajor Vegetation Zones of Africa

An ecological survey across West and Central Africa identifies a broad vegetation belt characterized by tall grasses interspersed with fire-resistant deciduous trees such as the shea butter tree (Vitellaria paradoxa) and locust bean tree (Parkia biglobosa), lying between the equatorial dense forests to the south and drier savanna belts to the north. Which African vegetation zone does this description represent?

  1. Guinea SavannaAnswer
  2. B
    Tropical Rainforest
  3. C
    Sahel Savanna
  4. D
    Mediterranean Vegetation

Answer

Guinea Savanna
The Guinea Savanna forms the transitional woodland belt immediately north of the tropical rainforest in West and Central Africa. It receives substantial seasonal rainfall, supporting tall grasses and fire-resistant deciduous trees like the shea butter tree, locus bean tree, and lophira.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the structural and botanical characteristics described in the question stem.
Identified key indicator species (shea butter and locust bean trees) and structural features (tall grasses and fire-resistant bark).
These indicator species and adaptational traits are specific to moist woodland savannas.
2
Determine the spatial location of the vegetation belt relative to neighboring ecosystems.
Located directly north of the humid tropical rainforest belt and south of the drier Sudan and Sahel savannas.
The north-south latitudinal sequence of West African vegetation zones transitions from Rainforest to Guinea Savanna, Sudan Savanna, Sahel Savanna, and finally Desert.
3
Match the ecological characteristics and geographical location to the correct vegetation zone.
The Guinea Savanna matches all listed criteria.
The Guinea Savanna receives 1,000 mm to 1,500 mm of annual rainfall, supporting tall grasses and deciduous trees adapted to seasonal bushfires.

Key Concept

Spatial Zonation and Botanical Characteristics of African Vegetation Belts
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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Topics

Major Vegetation Zones of Africa

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