6 Questions
What is the primary factor that distinguishes wetlands from other ecosystems?
The presence of permanent or seasonal flooding
What type of processes are prevalent in wetland soils due to flooding?
Anaerobic processes
What is the primary purpose of constructed wetlands?
Both b and c
What is one of the benefits of wetland conservation efforts?
Increased public awareness of wetland functions
How are wetlands classified based on the duration of flooding?
Permanently flooded and seasonally flooded
What is one of the key characteristics of wetland ecosystems?
The presence of diverse plant and animal species
Study Notes
Definition and Characteristics of Wetlands
- A wetland is an ecosystem that is flooded or saturated by water, either permanently or seasonally.
- Wetlands are characterized by oxygen-free anoxic processes, especially in the soils.
- The primary factor distinguishing wetlands from terrestrial land forms or water bodies is the characteristic vegetation of aquatic plants, adapted to unique anoxic hydric soils.
Biodiversity and Ecosystem Functions
- Wetlands are among the most biologically diverse of all ecosystems, serving as home to a wide range of plant and animal species.
Assessment and Conservation of Wetlands
- Methods have been developed to assess wetland functions, ecological health, and general wetland condition in many regions of the world.
- These methods have contributed to wetland conservation by raising public awareness of the functions some wetlands provide.
Constructed Wetlands
- Constructed wetlands are designed and built to treat municipal and industrial wastewater as well as to divert stormwater runoff.
- Constructed wetlands may also play a role in water-sensitive urban design.
Test your knowledge about wetlands, distinct ecosystems flooded or saturated with water. Learn about the unique characteristics including anoxic hydric soils and diverse aquatic plant species.
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