Wetlands are known as “nature’s kidneys”. Can you guess why? Wetlands are remarkable ecosystems that filter and purify the water that passes through them. They also act as sponges, soaking up large amounts of water from rainfall to help prevent flooding. Many types of animals — such as birds, fish, mammals, and reptiles — call wetlands home. Florida is home to the world-famous Everglades, a huge subtropical wetland located in Southern Florida, while Northern Florida features the much smaller Eglin Reservation(opens in a new tab). Sadly, more than half of the original wetlands in Florida have disappeared.
As we celebrate World Wetlands Day on February 2nd, we want to reflect on the important role that the wetlands play in Florida’s beauty and how we can contribute to preserving them. Although Crab Island isn’t a wetland itself, we are passionate about maintaining eco-friendly practices and strive to support our surrounding ecosystems.
What Are Wetlands?
Wetlands are areas of land that are saturated with water. They are home to many unique species of plants and animals that thrive in this type of environment. They come in many forms, including salt marshes, mangroves, and freshwater marshes and swamps.
Let’s explore three different types of wetlands found in Florida:
Salt Marshes: Home to Fish and Shellfish
Salt Marshes are coastal areas that are flooded by seawater. They provide habitats for fish, shellfish, and other marine animals. They help filter water and support cleaner ecosystems. The Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail is an example of a salt marsh located along Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Fun Fact: The salt marshes found in the Gulf Coast are home to shrimp and crabs, making them an important part of Florida’s seafood industry
Mangrove Swamps: Storm Shields
Mangrove swamps are wetlands made of trees, shrubs, and other plants that grow in tidal waters. They serve as natural barriers against hurricanes and storms – therefore they are vital in our state of Florida! An example of this is the Rookery Bar National Estuarine Research Reserve located near Naples. This reserve consists of red, black, and white mangroves. Did you know that a single acre of mangroves can protect miles of shoreline during a storm? They are essential for our coastal communities.
Freshwater Marshes: Flood Protection
Freshwater marshes are exactly what they sound like: wetlands filled with fresh water. They are often found near lakes or rivers. They absorb excess water during heavy rains and help with flood control. The Everglades is an iconic example of a freshwater marsh. It is full of sawgrass, with tree islands scattered throughout. It is a safe haven for many types of birds, amphibians, and reptiles.
Why Are Wetlands Important?
- Water Filtration: Wetlands are able to filter out pollutants and naturally clean our water
- Flood Control: They act like sponges, absorbing water during rainfall and preventing floods
- Animal Habitat: They provide homes for many different types of animals
- Carbon Storage: Wetlands can trap carbon dioxide, which helps reduce climate change
Local Wildlife of Florida’s Wetlands
Florida’s wetlands contain a variety of fascinating wildlife, from wading birds and slippery reptiles, to stalking panthers and gliding manatees. They are one of the most biologically productive ecosystems in the world. Many migratory birds stop at the wetlands to take refuge as they travel. Mammals rely on these habitats for shelter and food. Marine life uses the wetlands as fish nurseries for their young.
While exploring the waters near Crab Island, you may encounter visitors such as dolphins, manatees, or fish that depend on the wetlands and their ecosystems. You can say hi and take pictures, but please do not touch or feed the animals! You are in their home and by respecting their space, you can keep them safe. As we protect the wetlands and play our part, we can guarantee that these animals continue to thrive for years to come.
Threats to Wetlands
Although wetlands are crucial for their many functions, they are disappearing rapidly. Habitat destruction, pollution, climate change, and rising sea levels are just a few of the threats that have led to a significant loss of wetland areas. Florida has lost over 9 million acres of wetlands since the 1800s.
This devastating loss not only impacts the animals who call these wetlands home, but it also affects humans who benefit from their ecosystem services.
Crab Island’s Eco-Friendly Practices
At Crab Island Watersports, we strive to protect the environment that supports our business. As a part of Florida’s interconnected ecosystem, we are committed to supporting eco-friendly practices, such as:
- Eco-Friendly Boating: We encourage boat drivers to raise their motors in shallow water to avoid cutting up any type of seagrass, which is essential to animal habitats
- Educating Visitors: At Crab Island Watersports, we prioritize educating everyone who rents a boat from us about the local area, waterways, and wildlife
- Wildlife Protection: It is prohibited to feed or touch any sealife that you may encounter when out on the boat
Click here to watch our YouTube video(opens in a new tab) for more information on our boat safety guidelines and eco-friendly practices.
How You Can Help Protect Wetlands
- Respect Nature: When exploring the wetlands, be sure to avoid disturbing wildlife or damaging plants
- Support Conservation: Volunteer or donate to organizations that protect Florida’s wetlands
- Use Eco-Friendly Products: Choose to use safe sunscreens and cleaning supplies to reduce toxins and pollution
- Avoid Littering: Throw away your trash!
- Spread Awareness: Share your knowledge about wetlands and encourage others to support conservation
This World Wetlands Day, let’s work together to bring awareness to the importance of wetlands and encourage others to respect wildlife and nature. Although the wetlands are distant from Crab Island, they play a vital role in the beauty and health of our waterways.
You can make a difference by joining us in adopting eco-friendly habits and supporting conservation efforts. Let’s ensure that the wetlands continue to thrive for generations to come.
Ready to Experience the Beauty of Florida?
Book your next adventure(opens in a new tab) with Crab Island Watersports. Have fun on the water while joining us in making a difference.