What is a tributary?
streams and small rivers that feed into a main river
How does a pond form?
When water collects in hollows and low-lying areas of land
Describe a marsh
grassy areas covered by shallow water or a stream
What is a river system?
A river and all its tributaries together
How does a lake form?
When water collects in hollows and low-lying areas of land
Describe a swamp
"flooded forests" trees and shrubs sprouting from the water
How does a river form?
A small stream that reaches and joins another stream which flows together into a river
Describe the size of a pond
small and shallow
describe a bog
acidic water with mosses
Describe the size of a lake
large and deep
Why are wetlands important to people?
Natural water filters- thick network of plant roots absorb waste materials
Help prevent flooding by absorbing extra runoff from heavy rains
How are the bottoms of lakes and ponds different?
Ponds are Muddy covered in plants
Sunlight can reach the bottom of a pond, allowing plants to grow
Lakes have sand, pebbles, or rock
Sunlight cannot reach all parts of the the bottom of a lake
Why are wetlands important to wildlife?
Provide habitats (food and shelter)
Place for traveling animals to rest