Estuary
Estuary
Estuary (/ˈɛstʃʊˌɛri/), derived from the Latin word aestuarium, meaning tidal inlet, is a partially enclosed coastal body of brackish water with one or more rivers or streams flowing into it, and with a free connection to the open sea.
Definition
An Estuary is a semi-enclosed coastal body of water which has a free connection with the open sea and within which sea water is measurably diluted with fresh water derived from land drainage. Estuaries form a transition zone between river environments and maritime environments and are an example of an ecotone.
Types of Estuaries
Estuaries can be classified into four types:
- Coastal plain estuaries or drowned river valleys
- Tectonic estuaries
- Bar-built estuaries
- Fjord-type estuaries
Importance of Estuaries
Estuaries are among the most productive ecosystems in the world. They provide many ecological benefits, including habitat for wildlife, acting as nurseries for many species of fish and shellfish, and serving as important stopover points for migratory birds.
Related Terms
- Brackish water - Water that has more salinity than fresh water, but not as much as seawater.
- Ecotone - A region of transition between two biological communities.
- Ecosystem - A community of living organisms in conjunction with the nonliving components of their environment, interacting as a system.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Estuary
- Wikipedia's article - Estuary
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