Final answer:
Madagascar's elevation varies in a hump-shaped pattern with biodiversity levels peaking at moderate elevations and dropping towards higher altitudes. The central highlands cause a rain shadow effect impacting climate and vegetation. Similar altitude-related biodiversity and climate patterns are found in other African highlands.
Step-by-step explanation:
The elevation of Madagascar varies dynamically, showing a pronounced hump-shaped pattern, with biodiversity tending to decrease progressively as one moves away from sea level.
This richness is more apparent when adjusting for area variation, exhibiting a pattern where it first increases at moderate elevations, and then declines towards extreme elevations or depths.
Madagascar's central highlands, which can reach up to 9,435 feet, cause a rain shadow effect that significantly impacts the climate and vegetation on the western side of the island, creating conditions that favour savanna-like landscapes and sparse precipitation.
Consequently, different regions of Madagascar have distinct biodiversity levels and climates due to these elevation variances.
Interestingly, other regions in Africa also experience similar effects due to elevation changes, such as the Ethiopian Highlands and the Rwenzori Mountains, contributing to the unique climates and human activities found there.
For each 1,000-foot increase in elevation, the temperature drops approximately 3.5 °F, affecting the type of vegetation and agriculture possible and establishing distinct altitudinal zones.