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Found most commonly along subtropical and temperate coastlines worldwide, salt marshes play a variety of key roles in the environment. The creation of these distinct ecosystems starts with deep base layers of peat, which is decomposing plant matter. These base layers are then continually flooded at high tide and drained at low tide. The combination of peat and constant water addition and removal creates an environment with very low oxygen, meaning only select bacteria, plants, and animals can survive there. These organisms create a diverse habitat and are experts at surviving in the unfriendly conditions created in salt marshes. Some of these organisms include saltgrasses, grass shrimp, mud crabs, and fiddler crabs. In addition to providing a unique habitat, salt marshes also play an important role in the carbon cycle. The unique aspects of salt marshes make them very good at absorbing and storing carbon dioxide. This means that salt marshes assist us in removing carbon dioxide from our atmosphere and help lower the impacts of climate change. Unfortunately, these important habitats are currently endangered due to poor regulation and lack of sustainable conservation practices. However, by improving the regulation of both agricultural and industrial practices, we can help reduce negative impacts on salt marshes and many other important environments.
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