In the face of development activities, populations of indigenous plants and wildlife can be protected only through the protection and preservation of ecosystems necessary for their survival. Ecosystem requirements are species-specific and can include a variety of factors, such as soil type, water regime, climate, and plant and animal associations. Ecosystems are defined by the structure and function of plant and animal communities and by the habitats they utilize. The protection and preservation of ecosystems are important for a number of reasons, which include the protection of wildlife, climate control, maintenance of biodiversity sources, pollutant detoxification, erosion control, and CO2 sequestration.
Wetlands are ecosystems necessary for the survival of a host of aquatic and terrestrial species.
In addition, wetlands are integral parts of the hydrological system and are necessary for the maintenance of water supplies and water quality. Ecosystems face a number of threats that reduce the area available for wildlife, change the character of the species that inhabit particular habitats, or change their form through the alteration of features, including topography or water regime. Ecosystem preservation efforts are generally directed at protecting particular species, such as endangered or threatened species, recreationally or aesthetically important species, or commercially important species. Also see checklists on Pest Management, Siting, Landscaping, Water Use, Grazing, and Forestry Activities. Habitat Fragmentation Concerns .