A - Wetlands Flashcards
List one function of wetlands.
Flood control, sediment accretion, groundwater recharge, or water purification.
Name one product provided by wetlands.
Fisheries, game, forage, timber, or water.
What is a key attribute of wetlands?
Biological diversity or culture and heritage.
What is the Ramsar Convention?
An international treaty to conserve wetlands.
How does the Ramsar Convention define wetlands?
Areas of marsh, fen, peatland, or water, natural or artificial, with static or flowing water.
What types of wetlands are classified by Ramsar?
Marine, coastal, and inland types.
How many categories of wetlands does Ramsar recognize?
30 natural and 9 human-made categories.
What percentage of the earth’s surface is covered by wetlands?
6%.
What is the largest type of wetland by percentage?
Bogs, at 30%.
What are two main causes of wetland loss and degradation?
Agricultural demand, population growth, or river flow regulation.
List one natural cause of wetland degradation.
Drought or hurricanes.
Name one impact of infrastructure development on wetlands.
Loss and degradation of wetland areas.
What human activities contribute to wetland pollution?
Invasion of non-native species and pollution.
