This, too, is misleading, as they are still teeming with life below the muddy surface. Because of their unique water-holding capacity, wetlands serve at least four important functions for the rest of the ecosystem. Flood Buffers Wetlands act like giant sponges that slow down and hold water run-off, moderating the release of floodwater. In this way, wetlands help control flooding and also store water in times of drought. As water enters a wetland, it slows down, and soil and other particles settle out.
Water is filtered further by plants and microbes that can absorb harmful chemicals from the water.
The diverse invertebrate and plant life that thrives in the nutrient-rich mud of wetlands serves as one of Earth's richest food sources for wildlife. This food source supports dense populations of many species, making wetlands some of the world's most productive and diverse habitats. The wealth of food and shelter in wetlands makes them ideal rest stops for migrating birds. Wetlands serve a vast array of species and are often characterized by a dynamic, seasonally changing guest list. They also serve as nurseries for many animals, including many species of birds and marine life that disperse over entire continents and throughout our oceans.