Wetlands
Definition
Wetlands are areas where water covers the soil either permanently or seasonally. They provide essential ecosystem services such as water filtration, flood control, and habitat for diverse plant and animal species.
Analogy
Picture wetlands as nature's sponges. Just like a sponge absorbs and filters water, wetlands act as natural filters that absorb excess nutrients and pollutants from water, improving its quality.
Related terms
Biodiversity: The variety of living organisms in an ecosystem or on Earth. Wetlands are known for their high biodiversity due to the unique habitats they provide.
Eutrophication: The excessive enrichment of water bodies with nutrients, often caused by human activities such as agricultural runoff. Wetlands can help mitigate eutrophication by absorbing and processing these nutrients.
Ramsar Convention: An international treaty aimed at conserving and sustainably using wetlands worldwide. It promotes the conservation and wise use of wetlands through cooperation between countries.
"Wetlands" appears in:
Study guides (2)
Additional resources (1)
Practice Questions (5)
- What is one of the major human impacts on wetlands and mangroves?
- Which statement best describes wetlands?
- What is a primary function of wetlands?
- Which human activity contributes to the destruction of wetlands and mangroves?
- How do wetlands contribute to the overall health of watersheds?
Resources
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