Wetlands 1 Review

Flashcards created based on key concepts and definitions associated with wetlands.

Wetland

An area transitional between terrestrial and aquatic systems, where the water table is usually at or near the surface.

Hydric Soil

Soil that is saturated often enough and long enough with water to produce anaerobic conditions.

Hydrophytes

Plants that grow in water or water-logged soils.

Marsh

A type of wetland characterized by herbaceous plants, often found in areas of shallow water.

Swamp

A wetland dominated by trees and shrubs, with standing or slow-moving water.

Fen

A wetland that receives water from both groundwater and surface water, typically supporting vegetation such as grasses and sedges.

Bog

A type of wetland that accumulates peat and is characterized by acidic waters and a unique plant community.

Ecosystem Services

The benefits provided by ecosystems to humans, including habitat, flood control, water filtration, and carbon sequestration.

Storm Surge Reduction

The ability of wetlands to mitigate storm surge through vegetation and water retention.

Carbon Sequestration

The process by which wetlands store carbon, preventing it from returning to the atmosphere.