Lecture 1 - Introduction Flashcards
Wetlands
areas that have:
- shallow surface water or saturated soil
- biota adapted to or tolerant of wet conditions
- unique soils: organic-rich and/or hydric soils
Ramsar Sites
wetlands protected by certain countries
Hydrophytic
adapted to saturated conditions
Primary Reasons for Wetland Loss
- draining wetlands for agriculture, logging, and shoreline changes
- building houses, roads, etc…
Ecosystem Services
services provided by a natural area that would cost money for humans to replicate
Water Filtration
removing particles and dissolved substances from water
Water Storage
wetlands hold excess water during storms, preventing floods
Wildlife Habitat
wetlands provide living space for many species, including endangered species and species used for hunting, fishing, and recreation
Biological Productivity
wetlands typically have high primary productivity and can sustain diverse ecosystems
Net Primary Productivity
the rate of carbon fixation by photosynthesis minus plant respiration
Ecotones
areas where different ecosystem types meet
Category
large groups, dependent on soil type
Class
based on general wetland characteristics
Form
surface form, soil and water type
Type
dominant vegetation
Canadian Wetland Classification Hierarchy
category, class, form, type
Gleyed
grey colour in soil due to water saturation, low oxygen, loss of iron and magnesium
Peat
dead plant tissues that are partially decomposed (water saturation and low oxygen)
Ombrotrophic
receives water input only from rain
Minerotrophic
receives water rich in dissolved minerals (surface and/or groundwater)
Graminoids
plants with grass-like structure
Forms of Bogs
domed, slope, string
Wetland Categories
mineral wetlands, organic wetlands
Wetland Classes
bog, fen, swamp, marsh, shallow open water
