are wetlands terrestrial or aquatic ecosystems
Wetland functions and ecosystem benefits. Wetland functions are defined as the physical, chemical, and biological processes or attributes that are vital to the integrity of the wetland system. Because wetlands are often transition zones (ecotones) between terrestrial and deepwater aquatic systems, many processes have major implications for species. Since wetlands may provide food and habitat for many terrestrial and many aquatic species, wetland biodiversity is often higher than that of adjacent ecosystems.