Salt Marshes

Definition

Salt marshes are coastal wetlands that are regularly flooded by seawater during high tides. They provide critical habitat for many species and help protect coastlines from erosion.

Related terms

Estuary: An estuary is a partially enclosed coastal body of water where freshwater from rivers mixes with seawater. It serves as a transition zone between land and sea.

Mangroves:

Mangroves are trees or shrubs that grow in tropical and subtropical tidal areas. They have unique adaptations to survive in saline environments.

Barrier Islands: Barrier islands are long, narrow offshore sandbars parallel to the mainland that provide protection against ocean waves and storms.