Chumasande MatiwaneWe are often told to save our wetlands, but do people really know why they are important? These are some key points to consider, along with the reasons why they are worth saving.
Wetlands are vital for human survival. Wetlands are among the most productive environments that cradle the biological diversity that provides water and productivity. This is where countless species of plants and animals depend for survival.
Why wetlands matter
They support living ecosystems
Wetlands are among the most productive ecosystems in the world. They have a wide variety of microbes, insects, amphibians, reptiles, birds, fish and mammals that are all part of the wetland ecosystem. When the plants break down, they provide food for smaller insects, fish, which in turn serve as food for larger animals, reptiles, amphibians and birds.
Increases plant biodiversity
A wetland has a different diversity of plants than a garden. Plants that can withstand being in water, such as grasses and water lilies. These plants require a habitat that allows them to thrive, which can be challenging to achieve in a garden setting, even with a pond. The larger the wetland, the more diverse the plant species, and this plant diversity contributes to the overall stability and resilience of wetland ecosystems. The wetlands also store carbon within their plant communities and soil, rather than releasing it to the atmosphere as carbon dioxide.
Reduces flooding and erosion
Sometimes wetlands function as natural sponges that trap and slowly release surface water, rain, groundwater and floodwaters. The number of plants builds a strong root system that slows flood waters and distributes the water more evenly. Wetlands within and downstream of urban areas are particularly valuable, as they counteract the rate and volume of surface-water runoff from pavement and buildings.
Image Credit: Pexels
Wetlands are part of the country’s wider water story, from the water we use at home to the way healthy rivers and ecosystems support our communities downstream.
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Feature Image: Pexels
