Wetland Functions - Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens. How wetlands function with other Earth systems such as the atmosphere, hydrology, and as habitat for wildlife and humans. Salt Water Marshes: hold and regulate temperature of soil, trap sediments, slow flooding and erosion, feed detritus to ocean, carbon sequestering, oxygen during photosynthesis, salt tolerant, hay, seeds for wildlife and art, grasses for art and textiles, scenic and tourism value, wave breaker, bird nesting sites, DNA, noise abatement More. Fresh water tidal or riparian wetlands: hold soil, trap chemicals and sediment, produce detritus, seeds, wood and grasses used by humans and wildlife, flowers, bird habitat, fur bearing mammals, reptile skins, oxygen in photosynthesis, nitrogen fixing, sulfur cycle, flood control, fish, water temperature regulation, noise abatement, scenic value, recreation, DNA, enzymes for industry and pharmaceuticals, food crops, fish, amphibians, tourism More.