WETLANDS

What is a wetland? The term "wetlands" encompasses a wide variety of aquatic habitats. ex. - Swamps, marshes, bogs, prairie potholes, & flood plains

Where are they? Wetland - area with characteristics of both dry land and water. They occur at the edges of lakes, ponds, streams, and rivers, or in coastal areas protected from waves. They are found on every continent except Antarctica.

Why are they important? Prevent flooding by holding water like a sponge. Help keep river levels normal Accept water during storms and whenever water levels are high. When water levels are low, wetlands slowly release water.

More important roles Act as filters to detoxify chemicals in the water Important area for breeding, feeding and resting of migratory waterfowl.

Destruction of Wetlands Rotting vegetation produces methane or “swamp gas”, breeding of insects. People fill in these areas to build homes and cities. ½ have been destroyed by man.

MARSHES are periodically saturated, with water and characterized by herbaceous (non-woody) vegetation. 2 Types - tidal marshes (near ocean shore) and non-tidal marshes (near streams & lakes).

SWAMPS are fed by surface water and are dominated by trees and shrubs SWAMPS are fed by surface water and are dominated by trees and shrubs. They occur in either freshwater or saltwater floodplains. Characterized by very wet soils during the growing season and standing water during other times of the year. Swamps are classified as forrested, shrub, or mangrove.

BOGS are freshwater wetlands characterized by spongy peat deposits, various types of plants, & and a floor covered by moss. peat – tightly packed, partially decayed plant matter The water source for bogs is rainwater found in cool climates with abundant rainfall.

FENS are ground water-fed peat forming wetlands covered by grasses, sedges, reeds, and wildflowers. Willow and birch are also common. Fens, like bogs, tend to occur in cool climates with abundant rainfall