Wetland

Definition

A wetland is a unique ecosystem characterized by the presence of water, either permanently or seasonally, that supports a distinct community of plants and animals. These areas play a crucial role in biodiversity, acting as habitats for numerous species, and they are essential for various ecological functions such as water filtration, flood control, and carbon storage.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Wetlands cover about 6% of the Earth's surface and are found on every continent except Antarctica.
2. They serve as critical habitats for more than 40% of all species listed as threatened or endangered.
3. Wetlands act as natural water filters, removing pollutants and improving water quality before it enters larger bodies of water.
4. They provide essential services such as flood protection by absorbing excess rainwater and releasing it slowly over time.
5. Wetlands are significant carbon sinks, helping to mitigate climate change by storing carbon dioxide in their soils and vegetation.

Review Questions

• How do wetlands contribute to biodiversity in ecosystems?
  • Wetlands provide essential habitats for a wide variety of plants and animals, making them critical for maintaining biodiversity. They support numerous species that rely on these unique environments for breeding, feeding, and shelter. Additionally, wetlands serve as nurseries for many fish and amphibians, further contributing to the richness of life found in both freshwater and marine ecosystems.
• Discuss the ecological functions that wetlands perform and their importance to the surrounding environment.
  • Wetlands play several vital ecological roles, including water filtration, flood control, and habitat provision. By filtering pollutants from water before it flows into larger bodies like rivers and lakes, wetlands improve overall water quality. They also absorb excess rainfall during storms, reducing the risk of flooding downstream. These functions are crucial not only for the health of local ecosystems but also for human communities that depend on clean water and flood protection.
• Evaluate the impact of human activities on wetland ecosystems and their biodiversity.
  • Human activities such as urban development, agriculture, and drainage significantly threaten wetland ecosystems. The destruction or alteration of wetlands can lead to habitat loss for countless species, resulting in decreased biodiversity. Additionally, these activities disrupt the ecological functions of wetlands, such as their ability to filter water and provide flood control. Protecting wetlands is essential to maintain their ecological integrity and ensure that they continue to support diverse plant and animal communities.

Related terms

Marsh: A type of wetland dominated by herbaceous plants such as grasses and sedges, often found along the edges of lakes and rivers.

Swamp: A wetland that is characterized by the presence of woody plants, such as trees and shrubs, often found in areas with poor drainage.

Biodiversity:

The variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem, including the number of different species, genetic diversity, and ecosystem diversity.