AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Wetlands play a critical role in maintaining many natural cycles and supporting a wide range of biodiversity. They purify and replenish our water, and provide the fish and rice that feed billions. They serve as a natural sponge against flooding and drought, protect our coastlines and help fight climate change.

Detailed explanation-2: -Wetlands provide habitat for thousands of species of aquatic and terrestrial plants and animals. Wetlands are valuable for flood protection, water quality improvement, shoreline erosion control, natural products, recreation, and aesthetics.

Detailed explanation-3: -A wetland is an area of land that is either covered with water or saturated with water. Unique plants, called hydrophytes, define wetland ecosystems. This wooded wetland, near the Stillaguamish River in Washington, is dominated by western skunk cabbages, also called “swamp lanterns."

Detailed explanation-4: -During periods of low stream flows or lake levels, the slow discharge of groundwater to surface waters often helps maintain minimum water levels. In addition, wetlands help maintain streams, lakes, and reservoirs by releasing stored water directly into these systems.