6th gr. Science - Wetlands
What human activities help to preserve the Everglades?
1. The Government developed a system of pipes & canals to refill some drained areas with fresh water
How has human activity affected or threatened the Everglades?
1. AGRICULTURE: chemicals used by farmers 2. DEVELOPMENT: building homes, roads, canals & levees 3. INTRODUCTION OF NEW SPECIES: pest control or accidentally
What are the 3 types of freshwater wetlands?
1. marshes 2. swamps 3. bogs
Why are wetlands important to wildlife?
Because they have sheltered waters and a rich supply of nutrients. wetlands provide habitats for many living things.
Why do wetlands have a rich supply of nutrients?
Dead leaves & other plant and animal materials serve as natural fertilizers. They add nitrogen, phosphates, and other nutrients to the water and soil.
Why are coastal Wetlands unique?
They contain BOTH fresh & salt water. For example, salt marshes & mangrove forests.
How do Everglades help wildlife?
They provide food and shelter. The wetlands provide habitats, sheltered waters & a rich supply of nutrients.
Why are wetlands important to people?
Wetlands act as natural water filters. They also help control floods by absorbing excess water after heavy rains. Wetlands are like giant sponges!
How can paving over a wetland area cause flooding?
When wetlands are destroyed, the floodwaters are not absorbed. Instead, the water runs off the land quickly, worsening flood problems.
One reason the Florida Everglades is considered a unique environment is because it __________.
is a diverse wetland region with many unusual species.
How do Everglades help humans?
act as natural water filters - wastes settle out, absorbed by plants, plant roots, traps silt and mud; control floods by absorbing extra runoff
How has the INTRODUCTION OF NEW SPECIES affected the Everglades?
by pest control - killing animals or bringing in new ones
How has agriculture affected the Everglades?
farmers spraying chemicals on crops destroyed the Everglades
How has development affected the Everglades?
people building houses, roads & canals destroyed Everglades
What does the Everglades provide living organisms?
provides habitats to many different kinds of animals, including rare and endangered species
