Upload
elisabeth-casey
View
222
Download
0
Tags:
Embed Size (px)
Citation preview
The Estuary and Its Habitation Zones
Estuaries
Estuaries are where the salt and fresh water mix• Sheltered environments for
saltmarshes and mangroves• Spawning areas for fish• Recreational regions for man• Location where fishing
industries are often situated
Salt Marshes • Partial tidal coverage
• Salt tolerant vegetation
• Very important habitat for birds and coastal animals (provides shelter)
• Often seen as wasted land in past so filled in for use causing huge issues within ecosystem
Salt Marshes
• Salt marshes are often found in sheltered areas (e.g. behind sand spits)
• Where coastal zone meets fresh water is common as well
Mangroves
• Shrubs / trees able to withstand saline soils and water• Soils are rich in nutrient and plant
content. This decays (detritus) and is consumed by other animals in the food chain • Provide a valuable habitat for flora
and fauna• Assist in reducing wave energy,
thereby protecting the environment
Mangroves
Dunes
Incipient Dune – grass covered and changing
Foredune – larger vegetation and more stable
Hind Dunes – established soils, large vegetation, little affect from ocean spray/winds