Mudflat
From Free net encyclopedia
Mudflats are coastal wetlands that form when mud is deposited by the tides or rivers, they are found in sheltered areas such as bays, bayous, lagoons, and estuaries.
Mudflats are typically important regions for wildlife, supporting a large population, although levels of biodiversity are not particularly high. They are often of particular importance to migratory birds.
The maintenance of mudflats are important in preventing coastal erosion. However, mudflats worldwide are under threat from predicted sea level rises, land claims for development, dredging due to shipping purposes, and pollution.
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Major world mudflats
- Wadden Sea - Netherlands, Germany, Denmark
- Bridgwater Bay & Morecambe Bay - United Kingdom
- Chongming Dongtan Nature Reserve, Shanghai, China.
- Banc d'Arguin, Mauritania
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