Freshwater Wetlands
Definition
Freshwater wetlands are land areas saturated with freshwater for at least part of the year, creating unique ecosystems that support diverse plant and animal life.
Analogy
Think of freshwater wetlands as nature's sponges. Just like a sponge absorbs and holds water, wetlands soak up excess rainwater and help prevent flooding while providing habitat for many species.
Related terms
Marshes: Marshes are wetland areas dominated by grasses and reeds. They often have standing water throughout most of the year.
Swamps: Swamps are similar to marshes but have more trees than grasses. They tend to be flooded for longer periods.
Bog: A bog is a type of wetland characterized by acidic peat soil that supports unique plant communities such as mosses and shrubs.
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