What ecosystem service do salt marshes provide?

• A. Flood protection, habitat
• B. Recreation only
• C. Pollution generation
• D. Aesthetic value only

Answer: (A)

Salt marshes provide two key ecosystem services: flood protection and habitat. Their vegetation and soft, inland-facing flats absorb wave energy and storm surge, slow water flow, and trap sediments, which helps protect coastlines from flooding and erosion during storms and high tides. At the same time, these marshes create rich living spaces for many species, offering nursery habitat for juvenile fish and shellfish, feeding grounds for birds, and shelter for invertebrates, which supports coastal biodiversity and fisheries. While recreation and aesthetic value are additional benefits, they don’t capture the primary ecological roles as fully as flood protection and habitat. Salt marshes also help improve water quality by filtering runoff, rather than generating pollution.