Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
STB-3.E refers to the specific science and technology benchmark in AP Environmental Science that focuses on understanding the importance of wetlands and their role in maintaining water quality, biodiversity, and flood control.
Ecosystem services are the benefits that humans receive from functioning ecosystems. For example, wetlands provide services such as water purification, carbon sequestration, and storm protection.
Biodiversity refers to the variety of living organisms within an ecosystem. Wetlands are known for their high biodiversity due to their unique habitats that support a wide range of plants and animals.
Water quality refers to the chemical, physical, biological, and radiological characteristics of water. Wetlands play a crucial role in improving water quality by filtering out pollutants and excess nutrients before they reach other bodies of water.