Aquatic ecosystems are home to an abundant array of plant and animal life.
They provide critical nursery grounds for many organisms from micro-organisms to fish, resting and feeding places for migratory birds, and habitats for a great variety of mammals. A large percentage of plants and animals found in aquatic ecosystems have been identified as endangered species. Native Americans lived alongside aquatic ecosystems for thousands of years, hunting and harvesting the abundant resources found there. Over half of the naton's wetlands were drained or filled to become farmland or to support development. Times and attitudes have changed.