Wetlands

What is a Wetland?

• Types of wetlands. –Marshes–Swamps–Bogs–Fens

Water saturated patches of land.

A Transition zone, comprised of a unique system between water, soil, and vegetation.

Home to a vast number of aquatic and terrestrial species of flora and fauna.

Watershed

MarshesTidal• Found along

coastlines and influenced by the ocean tides, freshwater run offs, and ground water.

• Very high in primary productivity.

Non-Tidal• Dominated by

herbaceous plants• Frequently occur in

poorly drained depressions, floodplains, and along lakes and rivers.

• Freshwater marshes• Wet meadows• Wet prairies• Playas• Vernal Pools

Tidal: Chesapeake bay

Non-tidal

Swamps

• Primarily fed by surface water.• Dominated by trees and shrubs.• Found in both fresh and salt water

floodplains.• Forest swamps• Mangrove swamps• Shrub swamps

Bogs• Freshwater wetland– Common characteristics• Spongy peat moss deposits• Evergreen trees and shrubs• Sphagnum moss

• Filled by rain water• Common in glaciated areas

Fens• Fed by ground water• Covered by grasses, sedges, reeds

and wildflowers• Common place for willows and birch

trees

Up to half of all North American bird species nest or feed in wetlands.

Wildlife

Ecological services:• Improving water quality through filtration• Recharging ground water• Flood Control• Stop over for migratory birds• Nesting and breeding grounds• Provides a wide range of habitat • High biological productivity• Aesthetic

Threats!Degradation of habitat due to human activates.

In the United States, 22 states have lost close to 50% of their wetlands since the 1970’s. Most extensively in Southern States.

• Habitat destruction• Pollution

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