Wetland Ecosystems

Presentation Transcript

Grade 5 Science

What is a Wetland?

A wetland is an area with both dry land and land that is covered in water for at least a portion of the year.

Wetlands - Take Another Look

http://www.cws-scf.ec.gc.ca/hww-fap/

Fen

Bog

Marsh

Pond

Slough

Swamp

Types of Wetlands

There are both freshwater and saltwater wetlands.

In the water

Insects

Damselfly Larva

Water Boatman

Plants

Water Lilly

Duckweed

Animals

Tadpole

Beaver

On the land

Insects

Dragonfly

Mosquito

Plants

Willow

Grass

Animals

Moose

Red-winged Blackbird

Ponds – What Will You Find?

A Creature From a Pond

This is a drawing of a dragonfly. Dragonfly larvae live in the pond. Adult dragonflies fly over the pond and eat other insects like mosquitoes. Dragonflies are our friends.

By Chris Yakymyshyn

Comparing a Frog and a Duck

Why are Wetlands Important?

Wetlands are important for migratory birds.
Wetlands help control floods.
Wetlands filter the water for rivers and lakes.
Wetlands are home to many different species of plants, animals and insects.
Wetlands are beautiful!

Are Wetlands in Danger?

Wetlands are disappearing! Humans have destroyed millions of hectares on the Canadian prairies alone.
Many species are in danger because their habitat is vanishing.
Air and water pollution are serious threats to wetland ecosystems.

What Can We Do to Help?

Educate people – help them care about wetlands as important and beautiful spaces.
Give time or money to conservation groups fighting to save wetlands.
Write to your government – ask them to preserve our wetlands.