Saltmarsh Ecology

A broad introduction to the ecology of the unique environment of the saltmarsh.

The saltmarsh is uniquely influenced by both the marine and terrestrial environment. This book provides a broad introduction to the ecology of the saltmarsh, devoting particular attention to the diversity of saltmarsh vegetation worldwide, its characteristics and importance.This book provides a broad introduction to saltmarsh ecology, concentrating on plants, although much of the information should also be of interest to zoologists. Particular attention is given to the geographical diversity of saltmarsh vegetation and to the ecophysiological mechanisms which permit tolerance to the major challenges of high, but variable, soil salinities and of frequently waterlogged soils. The importance of saltmarshes as functioning ecosystems is discussed and issues relevant to the long-term conservation and management of saltmarshes are considered. Saltmarsh Ecology will be useful to upper level undergraduates and wetland scientists.