What are Salt Marshes? : GS TIMES IAS-PCS

Salt marshes are coastal wetlands found in the intertidal zone—the area between land and sea that is periodically submerged by tidal water.

They are characterised by salt-tolerant grasses and other plants that can survive in saline conditions.
They act as natural transition zones between terrestrial and marine ecosystems.
Since they are frequently submerged by tides and contain decomposing plant material, oxygen levels in their peat-rich soils can be very low. This condition is known as hypoxia.

Ecological and Economic Significance

Provide food, refuge and nursery habitats for more than 75% of fisheries species, including shrimp, blue crab and several finfish.
Reduce wave energy and trap sediments, thereby protecting shorelines from erosion.
Slow down and absorb rainwater, reducing the risk of coastal flooding.
Filter pollutants and runoff, while absorbing and processing excess nutrients.
Support diverse coastal and marine species by providing important feeding and breeding habitats.
Sustain fisheries-dependent communities and contribute to local economies and cultural practices.

Distribution in India

Gujarat has India’s largest coastal salt marshes.
Smaller areas are found in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra, among other coastal regions.

Threats to Salt Marshes

Rising sea levels and stronger storms increase pressure on coastal wetlands.
Reclamation, infrastructure development and land-use changes can destroy or fragment marsh habitats.
Industrial discharge, agricultural runoff and excess nutrients can degrade water and soil quality.
Damage to salt-tolerant plants weakens the marsh’s ability to trap sediments, reduce wave energy and support wildlife.

What are Salt Marshes?