* Estuaries: Where rivers flow into the sea.
* Coastal lagoons: Bodies of water separated from the ocean by a barrier.
* Salt marshes: Coastal wetlands with grasses that tolerate salty water.
Characteristics of brackish water:
* Salinity: Has a salinity level higher than freshwater (0.5 ppt) but lower than saltwater (35 ppt). The exact salinity can vary depending on the location and mixing of fresh and saltwater.
* Unique ecosystems: Brackish water supports a diverse range of plants and animals adapted to its specific conditions. These include fish like mullet and flounder, crabs, oysters, and various types of plants like mangroves.
* Important for biodiversity: Brackish water ecosystems play a crucial role in the food chain and provide habitat for numerous species.
Examples:
* The Chesapeake Bay in the United States is a well-known example of a brackish water estuary.
* The Baltic Sea is a brackish water sea with a lower salinity than typical ocean water.
Key takeaway: Brackish water is a unique and important environment that is a blend of freshwater and saltwater, supporting a distinct range of life.