Why are wetlands important?

• Wetlands are amongst the most productive ecosystems. They provide a wide range of ecosystem services. The importance of wetlands can be understood from the following services they provide:
• Firstly, wetlands help in flood control by acting as natural sponges. They temporarily storing and gradually releasing stormwater. Also, roots of wetland vegetation hold soils in place, thus stabilizing the banks of rivers and streams.
• Secondly, wetlands play an important role in maintaining the quality of water in deep-water ecosystems. Wetlands trap the sediments suspended in water- a process called sediment trapping. They also remove phosphorus and nitrogen and help prevent eutrophication of lakes and ponds. For this function, wetlands are often referred to as “Kidneys of the Earth”.
• Thirdly, wetlands host of a large number of species of microbes, plants, insects, amphibians, reptiles, birds, fish and mammals.
• Fourthly, wetlands help in carbon sequestration. They act as carbon sinks and wetland soil contains a high amount of carbon.
• Fifthly, wetlands help in natural groundwater recharge and discharge.  They store water that replenishes the groundwater. Further, they discharge groundwater into lakes, rivers, and streams during dry periods.
• Sixthly, wetlands help in regulating local climatic conditions particularly temperature and climate.
• Finally, wetlands provide a large number of economic benefits. These include water supply; fisheries; timber and other building materials; energy resources, such as peat and plant matter; wildlife resources; medicinal plants, recreational and tourism opportunities.

Source: ForumIAS