Are you curious about the difference between bhabar and terai? Look no further! In this article, we will delve into the distinctions between these two geographical features and shed light on their unique characteristics. By the end, you will have a comprehensive understanding of what sets bhabar apart from terai. So, let’s dive in!
Difference Between Bhabar and Terai
Bhabar: Nature’s Filter
Bhabar is a term used to describe a narrow strip of land found at the foot of the Himalayan mountain range. It serves as a transition zone between the mountainous terrain and the plains of the subcontinent. The bhabar is created by the deposition of rocks and pebbles, carried downstream by the rivers originating in the Himalayas.
Formation of Bhabar
When the rivers descend from the Himalayas, they have immense force and energy. However, as they enter the plains, their speed reduces significantly. This decrease in velocity leads to the deposition of sediments, including rocks and pebbles. This layer of sediment forms the bhabar.
Characteristics of Bhabar
The bhabar region is characterized by its coarse soil, which is well-drained due to the presence of large rocks and pebbles. This porous and permeable soil acts as a natural water filter, preventing water from accumulating and causing waterlogging. As a result, the bhabar region is relatively arid and lacks the fertility found in other plains areas.
Vegetation and Plant Life in Bhabar
Due to its well-drained soil, the bhabar region supports a different range of vegetation compared to the terai. The predominant vegetation in bhabar includes shrubs, thorny bushes, and dry deciduous forests. Some common plant species found in this region are Acacia catechu, Terminalia chebula, and Bombax ceiba.
Terai: The Lush Lowlands
Terai is a region located south of the bhabar. It is a vast, low-lying area that extends across the southern foothills of the Himalayas. The terai region is known for its fertile soil, dense forests, and rich biodiversity. Let’s explore further.
Formation of Terai
The terai is primarily formed by the deposition of fine alluvial soil carried by the rivers originating from the Himalayas. The soil in this region is composed of silt, sand, and clay particles, making it highly fertile and suitable for agriculture.
Characteristics of Terai
Unlike the bhabar, the terai is a fertile and well-watered plain. It receives ample rainfall and has a high water table, making it ideal for agricultural activities. The terai region is known for its lush green forests, grasslands, and wetlands, harboring a diverse range of flora and fauna.
Vegetation and Plant Life in Terai
The terai region boasts a rich and diverse ecosystem. It is home to dense tropical deciduous forests, tall grasslands, and wetland areas. The vegetation in the terai includes sal trees, teak, bamboo, elephant grass, and various types of orchids. This thriving flora supports a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, rhinoceroses, and numerous species of birds.
The Key Differences Between Bhabar and Terai
Now that we have explored the individual characteristics of bhabar and terai, let us summarize the key differences between these two geographical features:
- Formation: Bhabar is formed by the deposition of rocks and pebbles, while terai is formed by the deposition of fine alluvial soil.
- Drainage: Bhabar has excellent drainage due to its coarse soil, while terai has a high water table and is well-watered.
- Vegetation: Bhabar is characterized by shrubs, thorny bushes, and dry deciduous forests, whereas terai boasts dense tropical deciduous forests, grasslands, and wetlands.
- Fertility: The soil in bhabar is relatively infertile, while terai has highly fertile soil suitable for agriculture.
- Wildlife: Bhabar has a relatively lower level of biodiversity compared to the rich wildlife found in terai.
In conclusion, the difference between bhabar and terai lies in their formation, drainage, vegetation, fertility, and levels of biodiversity. While bhabar acts as a natural filter and exhibits arid characteristics, the terai flourishes with lush forests and fertile soil. Both these regions contribute to the diverse and magnificent landscape of our planet.
