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INTRODUCTION
Belgium, the most densely populated country in Europe, became a Federal State only in February 1993. The country is heavily into exports,
in fact, around 50 per cent of the produce generated is exported. Belgium has to its credit the world's 4th largest port, Antwerp, and also the world biggest diamond-trading center.
Climate of Belgium
The climate of Belgium is mixed in nature, with areas near the sea experiencing humid and mild climate, while the inland sees a marked increase in temperature. Ardennes highlands has hot summers and cold winters. The months of April and November are considered to be rainy months even as heavy rains remain confined almost exclusively to the highlands. Fog and drizzle are also a common feature during this time.
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Flora And Fauna of Belgium
The flora of Belgium is made up of plants like hyacinth, strawberry, goldenrod, periwinkle, foxglove, wild arum, and lily of the valley. Forest trees include oak, beech, elm, and stands of pine that have been planted as part of reforestation programs. The fauna is made up of small animals, primarily fox, badger, pheasant, squirrel, weasel, marten, and hedgehog. The Ardennes highlands is home to deer and wild boar.
Location of Belgium
Belgium is located in northwestern Europe, bound by The Netherlands and the North Sea in the north, Germany and Luxembourg in the east, and by France in the south and southwest.
Physical Map of Belgium
Belgium can be divided into three regions - the coastal plain, the central plateau, and the Ardennes highlands.
The coastal plain extends inland 16 to 48 km on the northwest. The central plateau is a slightly elevated area, made up of a number of wide, fertile valleys with a rich, alluvial soil. In this region, one can find caves and ravines too. The Ardennes highlands consist of densely wooded plateau averaging 1,500 ft in elevation, extending across southeastern Belgium and into northeastern France. The area is generally rocky and poorly suited for agriculture. The chief rivers flowing throughBelgium include the Schelde (Escaut) and the Meuse, which rise in France and are for the most part navigable throughout the country.
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