Definition
Wetlands are ecosystems that are either permanently or seasonally saturated with water to an extent that influences the soil and the plant and animal species present. The water within wetlands can be static or flowing, and it can be freshwater, brackish, or saline. Wetlands serve essential ecological functions by purifying water, providing flood protection, recharging groundwater, and offering habitats for diverse species.
Examples
- Marshes: This type of wetland is frequently inundated with water and characterized by herbaceous plants like grasses, reeds, and sedges. An example is the Florida Everglades.
- Swamps: These are wetlands dominated by woody plants and are often found in areas with poor drainage. The Okefenokee Swamp in Georgia and Florida is a prime example.
- Bogs: These are wetlands that accumulate peat, with vegetation often comprising mosses, and receiving water mostly from precipitation. The Great Dismal Swamp spanning Virginia and North Carolina is a notable bog.
- Fens: Fens are peat-forming wetlands that receive nutrients from sources other than precipitation, such as alkaline groundwater. Wisconsin is home to many fens.
FAQs
Why are wetlands important?
Wetlands are crucial for biodiversity, as they provide habitats for many plant and animal species. They also play a significant role in water purification, flood control, and carbon storage.
Are wetlands protected by law?
Yes, many wetlands are protected by environmental laws such as the Clean Water Act in the United States, which regulates the discharge of pollutants into the waters of the United States and makes it illegal to drain or fill wetlands without a permit.
Can you build on wetlands?
Development on wetlands is highly regulated and generally discouraged due to their environmental importance. Any such development typically requires thorough environmental assessments and permits from relevant authorities.
How can you identify a wetland?
Indicators of wetlands include hydrophytic vegetation (plants adapted to wet conditions), hydric soil (soil that is permanently or seasonally saturated), and signs of hydrology such as standing water or water-stained leaves.
What is wetland mitigation?
Wetland mitigation involves compensating for the loss of a wetland by restoring, creating, enhancing, or preserving other wetlands. It is often a requirement for obtaining permits to develop on wetlands.
Related Terms
- Hydric Soil: Soil that is permanently or seasonally saturated by water, leading to anaerobic conditions.
- Hydrophytic Vegetation: Plants that have adapted to growing in water-saturated conditions.
- Riparian Zones: Interface areas between land and a river or stream, which can often contain wetland conditions.
- Aquifers: Subterranean layers of water-bearing rock or materials from which groundwater can be extracted.
Online Resources
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Wetlands
- Ramsar Convention on Wetlands
- Wetlands International
References
- Mitsch, W.J., & Gosselink, J.G. (2015). Wetlands. Wiley.
- National Research Council (NRC). (1995). Wetlands: Characteristics and Boundaries. National Academies Press.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- Ecology of Wetlands by Darold P. Batzer and Rebecca R. Sharitz
- Wetland Indicators: A Guide to Wetland Identification, Delineation, Classification, and Mapping by Ralph W. Tiner
- Wetlands by William J. Mitsch and James G. Gosselink
- The Biology of Freshwater Wetlands by Arnold G. van der Valk
