ABSTRACT

Wetlands, vital components of the Earth's natural wealth, play a crucial role in ecological, economic, and cultural contexts. Understanding their significance involves grasping the definition, functions, distribution, and threats they face worldwide. Wetlands are ecosystems reliant on shallow and regular saturation near the substrate's surface, characterized by hydric soils and hydrophytic vegetation. According to the Ramsar Convention, wetlands encompass areas of marsh, fen, peatland, or water, natural or artificial, permanent or temporary, with static or flowing water, ranging from fresh to saltwater. These diverse ecosystems are categorized into various types based on their vegetation and hydrological characteristics, such as marshes, swamps, bogs, and fens. Wetlands serve as vital habitats for an extensive array of plant and animal species, contributing significantly to biodiversity. Furthermore, wetlands provide essential services, including water storage, water quality control, carbon sequestration, and coastal protection. However, they are threatened by human activities, including drainage, pollution, and habitat destruction. Therefore, fostering awareness and conservation efforts are paramount to ensure the sustainable utilization and preservation of wetlands, preserving their ecological integrity and benefiting both human and natural systems.

Keywords: Biodiversity; Conservation; Ecosystem; Sustainability; Wetlands