Wetlands
All species of animals and plants need food, water, cover and space in order to live and reproduce. Together, these elements make up their "habitat." Habitat is the key to the survival of any species.
What Are Wetlands?
Perhaps the most important type of wildlife habitat is wetlands. These areas are also called marshes, bogs, swamps, ponds, potholes and bayous. In the past, wetlands were regarded as wastelands. They were thought of only as breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Many wetlands were drained. In fact, more than half of the United States original wetlands have been drained and filled in since colonial times.
Why Are They Important?
In recent years, however, wetlands have been found to be vital to the survival of hundreds of animals and plants. These creatures include half of the nation's endangered species.
Wetlands are also important to people because they filter pollutants and sediment from water and so they are a good source of safe water. They serve as a natural means of flood and erosion control, as well.
Adapted from "Habitat." U.S. Department of the Interior U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Biologue Series. 1995.
1
Click on the best summary of the passage.
A.
Wetlands are an important type of habitat. They are areas such as bogs and ponds. Wetlands were once considered wastelands. Many wetlands were drained.
Wetlands are important for the survival of many animals and plants. Wetlands also help filter pollution and sediment and control flooding and erosion.
B.
Wetlands are an important type of habitat. Recently, scientists discovered that many endangered species can be found in wetlands.
Wetlands are important for people also. They help filter pollutants and sediment from water.
C.
Wetlands are an important type of habitat. All species need a safe habitat. This is where they find their food, water, cover and space in order to live and reproduce.
Wetlands are sometimes called marshes, bogs, swamps, ponds, potholes or bayous. They used to be thought of as wastelands. Many wetlands were drained.
