Freshwater Marshes and Swamps

Freshwater marshes are _______________ dominated by ___________________.

Wetlands, grasses

What are wetlands?

Areas that are covered with surface waters for much of the year. There may be periods where the surface waters are absent, but the soil underneath is still moist, or saturated.

What are the benefits of marshes?

- Water purification
- Flood control
- Moderation of temperature
- Water storage
- Climate control
- Wildlife habitat

How do marshes clean water?

Marshes reduce water flow, allowing particulates and chemicals to fall out of the water column, and chemical nutrients to be absorbed by the plants.

What is a niche?

The area where an organism

What is the definition of competition?

An interaction between organisms or species in which both the organisms or species are harmed. Limited supply of at least one resource (such as food, water, and territory) used by both can be a factor.

What is interspecific competition?

Interspecific competition - a form of competition in which individuals of different species compete for the same resources in an ecosystem (e.g. food or living space).

What is intraspecific competition?

Intraspecific competition- an interaction in population ecology, whereby members of the same species compete for limited resources. This leads to a reduction in fitness for both individuals, but the more fit individual survives and is able to reproduce.

What is mutualism?

Mutually beneficial species interactions. Plant-pollinator mutualisms are particularly important

What happens to the snail kites population when their food source population is low?

It decreases

What happens to the snail kites population when their food source population is high?

It increases

What is the distinguishing feature of swamps?

Swamps are characterized as wetlands dominated by trees

Why do swamps have more diverse organisms that marshes?

Trees create additional shelter for a variety of animals, so swamps have a greater diversity of organisms than marshes.

What is the most common type of tree in Florida swamps?

Cypress trees

What tree type has knees?

Cypress trees

What are epiphytes?

Air plants" that grow on larger plants; absorb moisture from the air