a wetland formed where a river meets the sea
A wetland formed where a river meets the sea is called an estuary. Estuaries are transitional areas where freshwater from the river mixes with saltwater from the ocean. The mixing of these two types of water creates a unique environment that is rich in nutrients and supports a diverse range of plants and animals.
Estuaries are typically characterized by shallow water, mud flats, and salt marshes. These areas are highly productive and provide important habitat for numerous species. The brackish water found in estuaries supports various aquatic plants such as seagrasses and algae as well as fish, shellfish, and migratory birds.
They also act as natural filters, helping to remove pollutants and sediment from the freshwater before it reaches the ocean. Additionally, estuaries play a crucial role in the life cycle of many species, serving as nurseries and breeding grounds for fish and other marine organisms.
Due to their ecological importance, estuaries are often protected and managed as nature reserves or designated as environmentally sensitive areas. However, they are also vulnerable to human activities such as pollution, habitat destruction, and climate change, which can have detrimental effects on the delicate balance of these ecosystems.