the top spreads out into
a picturesque plateau which is about 19 km. is length
and 5-8 km. in breadth. Attitudinally it varies from
300m. at the foot Mil to 1722m. at Gurashikhar, the
highest peak of the Aravali Ranges. The rocks are igneous
and due the weathering effect of wind and water, large
cavities are common the rocks. This feature is typical
of Aravali and particularly of Mt. Abu. Toad Rock in
Mount Abu is one such example.
Mount Abu has a very rich floral biodiversity
starting with xenomorphic subtropical thorn forest at
the foot hills to subtropical evergreen forest along
water courses and valleys at higher altitudes. These
forests consist of 112 plant families with 449 genera
and 820 species. Of these, 663 species are dicots while
157 species are monocots. Mount Abu is the only place
in Rajasthan where one can observe a variety of orchids.
The place is also rich in bryophytes and algae. Three
species of wild roses and 16 species of feras some of
which are quite rare have also been reported from here.
The South- West part of the Sanctuary is rich in bamboo
forests.
The sanctuary is rich in herbal medicinal
plants also. About 81 species of tree, 89 species of
shrubs, 28 species of climbers and 17 species of tuberous
plants of medicinal importance have been identified.
A variety of fauna Including highly
rare, threatened and endangered species are found in
this sanctuary. The past history of Mount Abu indicates
the presence of Lion (last recorded in 1872) and Tiger
(last reported in 1970). Presently the Panther is the
apex predator. Other animals found here are Sambhar,
Jungle Cat, Small Indian Civet, Wolf, Hyaena, Jackal,
Indian Fox, Common Langoor, Wild Boar, Pangolin, Rate!,
Common Mongoose, Indian Hare, Porcupine, Hedgehog, etc.
The sanctuary provides an ideal habitat for Sloth Bear,
The population of Sloth Bear is increasing regularly
as it can be seen while going through the forests or
motoring on the road.
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