Marsh

Marsh is a type of wetland that is dominated by herbaceous rather than woody plant species. Marshes can often be found at the edges of lakes and streams, where they form a transition between the aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. They are often dominated by grasses, rushes or reeds. If woody plants are present they tend to be low-growing shrubs. This form of vegetation is what differentiates marshes from other types of wetland such as swamps, which are dominated by trees, and bogs, which are wetlands that have accumulated deposits of dead plant material.

Types of Marshes

There are several different types of marshes, each of which is defined by its salinity, water level, and whether the water is alkaline or acidic. These include:

• Tidal marshes: These marshes are found along coasts and are influenced by the tides. They can be either freshwater or saltwater marshes.
• Non-tidal marshes: These marshes are found inland and are not influenced by tides. They can be either freshwater or saltwater marshes.
• Salt marshes: These marshes are found in coastal areas where the tide brings in saltwater.
• Freshwater marshes: These marshes are found in inland areas and are not influenced by tides. They are typically found near the mouths of rivers and are rich in mineral nutrients.

Ecology

Marshes provide a habitat for many species of plants, birds, and aquatic animals. They also serve as a natural filter for pollutants in the water, and can help to mitigate flooding by absorbing excess water during periods of heavy rainfall.

Threats and Conservation

Marshes are threatened by human activities such as drainage for agriculture and urban development, pollution, and climate change. Conservation efforts are focused on protecting existing marshes and restoring degraded ones.

See Also

• Wetland
• Swamp
• Bog
• Fen
• Mire

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