The Effects of Wetland Degradation on Ecological Species

Abstract

Wetlands are vital ecosystems that provide numerous ecological services, including flood control, water filtration, carbon sequestration, and habitat for diverse flora and fauna. However, human activities such as urbanization, agriculture, and infrastructure development have led to widespread wetland degradation worldwide. Wetland ecosystems diminished by 21-35% between 1700 and 2020 as a result of human interference, with at least 1.3 million square miles of wetlands lost globally—an area about the size of Alaska, Texas, California, Montana, New Mexico, and Arizona combined. This research used a documented methodology for extracting information from different books, conversations, conferences, and international organizations to understand the effects of wetland degradation on the decline of species and strategies for wetland conservation and restoration. This paper aims to elucidate the multifaceted effects of wetland degradation on ecological species. The results indicate that wetland degradation declines water quality, leading to alterations in water flow patterns, decreased groundwater recharge, and increased flooding downstream. This can result in the loss of biodiversity, as many species depend on specific water levels and habitats within wetlands. Moreover, the loss of wetlands diminishes their volume to store carbon, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and exacerbating climate change. Furthermore, wetland degradation compromises water quality by reducing the natural filtration and purification functions of wetlands. Contaminants from agricultural runoff, industrial discharge, and urban pollution accumulate in degraded wetlands, posing risks to human health and aquatic ecosystems. Additionally, the loss of wetlands exacerbates erosion and sedimentation, leading to habitat destruction and loss of coastal resilience against storms and sealevel rise. Addressing wetland degradation requires a multifaceted approach, including policy interventions, restoration efforts, and public awareness campaigns. Effective wetland conservation strategies involve the preservation of existing wetlands, restoration of degraded ones, and sustainable management practices to mitigate further degradation. Collaborative efforts between governments, NGOs, local communities, and stakeholders are essential to safeguarding these critical ecosystems and the invaluable services they provide to the environment and society.