What are wetlands and its purpose in our environment?

Wetlands are a link between water and land. They are a part of the foundation of nations resources and are vital to health of the environment. Wetlands are called by many names like swamps, marshes and bogs. They mostly consist of trees, grasses, mangroves, shrubs and mosses. They vary widely on a few environmental factors such as the differences in soils, climate, topography, climate, vegetation and in how often water is there to saturate the vegetation, also known as the hydrology. They are mainly found alongside waterways such as lakes and oceans and flood plains. Wetlands serve many and import functions not only to the environment but to humans as well that also benefit from the environmental advantages. According to Defenders of Wildlife, wetlands are considered to be one of the most productive ecosystems in the world.

So what are the importance of wetlands? Well let me tell you.

Wetlands first and foremost are homes to many forms of life, they provide a habitat and protection for these wildlife. They also serve as a food source for aquatic life by releasing vegetative matter into rivers and oceans. Apart from providing food and homes for creatures they serve other important functions such as acting like sponges against flooding. They prevent flooding by absorbing water during stormy weather and keeping river levels normal. They also help to purify, filter out and store water. These ecosystems also serve recreational purposes by providing places of beauty for people to visit. Example Caroni Swamp and the Nariva Swamp both situated in the island of Trinidad.

 You can check out these websites if you would like more information.

http://water.epa.gov/type/wetlands/index.cfm
http://www.defenders.org/wetlands/basic-facts