Wetlands | Vibepedia

Wetlands are semi-aquatic ecosystems characterized by saturated or flooded groundcovers, hosting a wide range of aquatic and semi-aquatic plants and animals. These ecosystems are found on every continent except Antarctica and are crucial for maintaining water quality, supporting biodiversity, and regulating the climate. With their unique vegetation adapted to oxygen-poor conditions, wetlands are considered among the most biologically diverse ecosystems, providing habitats for numerous species and improving water quality through plant removal of excess nutrients. The main types of wetlands, including marshes, swamps, and peatlands, are defined based on dominant plant species and water sources. As vital components of the global ecosystem, wetlands face numerous threats, including habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change, emphasizing the need for conservation and sustainable management.