Estuary Functions: Nurseries, Habitat, Filtration, Recreation

• Nurseries – Shallow, food‑rich waters for fish/shellfish spawning and growth.
• Wildlife Habitat – Birds, reptiles, mammals thrive in mudflats, salt marshes, mangroves.
• Water Filtration – Traps sediment, nutrients, bacteria, improving water quality.
• Recreation & Tourism – Boating, fishing, swimming, birdwatching draw visitors.

Estuaries are ecologically vital and economically valuable.