Questions and Answers
What are the five systems of USFWS Classification (Cowardin)?
What defines marine wetlands?
Wetlands in open ocean overlaying the continental shelf and high energy coastline, influenced by oceanic tides, with salinities >0.5%, commonly >30%, and absent of emergent trees and shrubs.
What defines estuarine wetlands?
Wetlands in deepwater tidal habitats, semi-enclosed by land with access to ocean, influenced by oceanic tides, with salinities >0.5% (diluted by freshwater) and present emergent trees and shrubs.
What defines riverine wetlands?
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Study Notes
USFWS Classification (Cowardin)
- Classification consists of five systems: Marine, Estuarine, Riverine, Lacustrine, Palustrine.
- Vegetation is the primary classification criterion, not based on functionality.
Marine Wetlands
- Found in open ocean areas over the continental shelf with high-energy coastlines.
- Characterized by tidal influence from the ocean, resulting in unique water regimes.
- Salinity levels are typically greater than 0.5%, often exceeding 30%.
- Emergent trees and shrubs are absent in these wetland types.
Estuarine Wetlands
- Located in deepwater tidal habitats that are semi-enclosed by land and connected to the ocean.
- Water regimes are significantly impacted by oceanic tides.
- Salinities exceed 0.5%, with mixing from freshwater sources leading to lower overall salinity.
- Emergent trees and shrubs thrive in these environments.
Riverine Wetlands
- Defined as wetlands situated within channels, typically freshwater flow systems.
- Water regimes are not influenced by oceanic tides.
- Specific salinity levels are not detailed but differ from estuarine systems.
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Description
Explore key concepts of wetland classification through flashcards. This quiz covers the USFWS Cowardin classification system, detailing different types of wetlands including marine, estuarine, and more. Perfect for students and professionals in environmental science and ecology.
