Estuaries

Definition

Estuaries are coastal bodies of water where freshwater from rivers and streams meets and mixes with saltwater from the ocean. They are highly productive ecosystems that provide vital habitats for a variety of marine life.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Estuaries act as nurseries for many marine species, providing shelter and abundant food.
2. They help filter pollutants from rivers before they reach the ocean.
3. Estuaries are characterized by brackish water, which is a mixture of fresh and saltwater.
4. They support high biodiversity due to the varying salinity levels and nutrient availability.
5. Human activities such as pollution and development pose significant threats to estuarine environments.

Review Questions

• What role do estuaries play in the lifecycle of many marine species?
• How do estuaries contribute to water quality?
• What are some human activities that threaten estuarine environments?

Related terms

Brackish Water: Water that has more salinity than freshwater but less than seawater.

Wetlands: Areas where water covers the soil or is present near the surface, supporting aquatic plants.

Mangroves: Coastal trees and shrubs that grow in saline coastal sediment habitats in tropical and subtropical regions.