There are many species of Bay grasses, which thrive in waters of differing salinity. Pondweeds and wild celery grow in shallow freshwater, while widgeon grass and eelgrass prefer high-salinity waters. Underwater grasses are a food source for many animals and provide important habitat, shelter and nursery areas for juvenile fish, shellfish and invertebrates. Bay wetlands also contain a vast range of plant life. Estuarine wetlands are tidally flooded with salt or brackish water.
Palustrine wetlands are freshwater areas that border rivers, streams, lakes and ponds.
Both are found in the Chesapeake Bay watershed, although estuarine wetlands are more common. Forested wetlands are habitat for many species of trees, shrubs and vines. Forested wetlands and streams contain an abundance of plants that thrive beneath a canopy of trees. Individual species include red maple, ash, various species of oak, bald cypress and loblolly pine. Streamside forests help maintain clean water and keep water temperatures cool for spawning fish.