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Forests in Uzbekistan add greenery and color to the otherwise dry and arid country. Uzbekistan forests differ in their composition according to the contrasting ecosystems supporting them. Eight per cent of the total land area in Uzbekistan is covered by forests. The forests are unevenly distributed in the territory.
The Tugai or the gallery forests can be found in the delta or the riverside regions. The downstream of Angren and Kashkadarya rivers have this kind of vegetation. This type of forest contains dwarf bushy shrubs, which grow along the river banks. Amphibians, different kind of reptiles like water grass snakes are abundant in these forests. Variety of bird species like the black crow, magpie can also be spotted. Animals like the reed cat, jackal, fox, wild boar, bukharan deer and badger represent the predators.
The deciduous forests in Uzbekistan are found between heights of 800 and 200 meters above sea level. They are mostly concentrated in the Western Tien Shan Mountains like the Ugam, Chatkal, Tashkent and Karzhantau ridges. Majority portion of the mountain forests are the Juniper forests. The pattern of these mountain forests are alternating meadows with a background of trees and shrubs. Colorful birds like woodpeckers and magpies enhance the beauty of these forests. Larger species of mammals like the badger, wild boar, bear and dormouse are the main wildlife attractions in these forests.
The primary role of the forests of Uzbekistan is to maintain proper balance in nature. It protects the agricultural lands and binds the soil from any sort of wind or water erosion. To some extent, it also helps to add some greenery to the vast expanse of desert areas. The rich forests in Uzbekistan act as a source of products like nuts, fruits, medical plants and fodder for the cattle population.
The government has chalked out effective policies and has taken qualitative measures in protecting these forests. Significant reforms in forest management and forest conservation have also been made.
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