Terrestrial Habitats - SS2 Biology Lesson Note
The term "terrestrial habitats" refers to the habitats or environments found on land, as opposed to aquatic or marine habitats. Terrestrial habitats include a wide range of ecosystems and landscapes, from forests and grasslands to deserts and mountains. These habitats are shaped by various factors such as climate, topography, soil composition, and vegetation cover. They support diverse communities of plants, animals, and microorganisms that have adapted to survive and thrive in these land-based environments. Terrestrial habitats are essential components of the Earth's biosphere and play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity, ecosystem services, and the overall functioning of our planet.
MARSHY HABITATS
Marshy habitats, also known as marshes, are wetland ecosystems characterized by soft, waterlogged soils, and the presence of emergent herbaceous vegetation. They are found in both freshwater and saltwater environments and are typically transitional zones between terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Marshes are highly productive and support a wide variety of plant and animal species. Here are some key features and characteristics of marshy habitats:
1. Hydrology: Marshes have a high-water table and are often inundated with water for extended periods. They can be influenced by tides, groundwater seepage, or seasonal fluctuations in water levels. The water in marshes is typically shallow, allowing emergent vegetation to grow.
2. Vegetation: Marshes are dominated by herbaceous plants, such as grasses, sedges, rushes, reeds, and other marsh-adapted plants. These plants have adaptations to tolerate waterlogged conditions and may have specialized structures like rhizomes or aerenchyma for gas exchange.
3. Wetland Soils: Marshes have waterlogged soils rich in organic matter, known as peat or muck. The accumulation of decomposing plant material leads to the formation of these nutrient-rich soils. Marsh soils are often anaerobic (low in oxygen) due to water saturation.
4. Biodiversity: Marshes are known for their high biodiversity, supporting a wide range of plant and animal species. They serve as important habitats and breeding grounds for birds, fish, amphibians, reptiles, insects, and various invertebrates. Many species rely on marshes for nesting, feeding, and shelter.
5. Ecological Functions: Marshes provide numerous ecological functions and services. They act as water filters, helping to improve water quality by trapping sediments and absorbing nutrients. They also serve as buffers against coastal erosion and storm surges, providing flood control and protecting adjacent land areas.
6. Types of Marshes: There are different types of marshes based on their location and dominant water source. Saltwater marshes occur in coastal areas and are influenced by tidal movements and saltwater intrusion. Freshwater marshes are found along rivers, lakes, or wetland areas and are influenced by freshwater inputs.
7. Marsh Zones: Marshes can have distinct zones or areas based on the depth and frequency of inundation. These zones may include emergent vegetation at the water's edge, open water areas with floating or submerged plants, and transitional zones with partially submerged vegetation.
Marshy habitats are important ecosystems that provide essential services, including flood control, water purification, and habitat provision for a diverse range of organisms. They are vulnerable to human activities such as drainage, pollution, and habitat loss, making their conservation and restoration crucial for maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem health.
There are several types of marshes based on their location, dominant water source, and specific environmental conditions. Here are some common types of marshes:
Saltwater Marshes: Saltwater marshes, also known as tidal marshes or coastal marshes, occur along coastlines and are influenced by tidal movements. They are found in areas where saltwater and freshwater mix, such as estuaries and lagoons. Saltwater marshes are characterized by the presence of salt-tolerant plants, including Saltgrass, cordgrass, and saltmarsh bulrush.
Freshwater Marshes: Freshwater marshes are found in non-tidal areas along rivers, lakes, ponds, and other wetland habitats. They are influenced by freshwater inputs, rainfall, and groundwater. Freshwater marshes support a variety of herbaceous plants like cattails, sedges, and water lilies. They can provide important habitat for waterfowl, amphibians, and other wetland-dependent species.
Marshlands (pewtrusts.org)
Marshes have significant economic importance due to the valuable ecosystem services they provide. Here are some of the economic benefits associated with marshes:
Fisheries: Marshes serve as vital nurseries and feeding grounds for many commercially important fish and shellfish species. They provide shelter, food, and protection for juvenile fish during critical stages of their life cycles. Marshes support fisheries by enhancing fish productivity and contributing to the overall abundance of fish stocks. This, in turn, supports commercial and recreational fishing industries, providing employment and economic opportunities for local communities.
Water Filtration and Treatment: Marshes act as natural filters, removing pollutants and excess nutrients from water. They trap sediment, absorb nutrients, and help prevent the runoff of pollutants into downstream water bodies. This filtration function reduces the costs associated with water treatment for drinking water supplies and reduces the impact of nutrient pollution on ecosystems, including harmful algal blooms.
Flood Control and Storm Protection: Marshes act as natural buffers against floods and storm surges. They absorb and store water during heavy rainfall or storms, reducing the risk of flooding in nearby areas. Marshes can absorb and slow down floodwaters, providing valuable flood control benefits to coastal communities. This can help mitigate property damage and reduce the costs associated with flood recovery and insurance claims.
Shoreline Protection and Erosion Control: Marshes play a critical role in stabilizing shorelines and protecting coastal areas from erosion. The dense vegetation and intricate root systems of marsh plants help bind soils, reduce wave energy, and prevent the erosion of coastal land. This natural protection can save costs associated with engineering structures and artificial shoreline stabilization methods.
Tourism and Recreation: Marshes attract visitors and provide recreational opportunities, contributing to local tourism economies. People enjoy activities such as birdwatching, wildlife viewing, boating, kayaking, and fishing in marsh ecosystems. Marshes offer scenic beauty, opportunities for outdoor recreation, and a chance to experience and appreciate diverse plant and animal life. The tourism and recreational activities associated with marshes can generate revenue and support local businesses and job opportunities.
Carbon Sequestration and Climate Regulation: Marshes store significant amounts of carbon in their vegetation and soils. They act as carbon sinks, helping to mitigate climate change by sequestering carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Marsh conservation and restoration contribute to greenhouse gas reduction efforts and can potentially generate carbon credits or participate in carbon offset programs.