Elustiilitsoonid

Elustiilitsoonid, also known as "Estonian Estuary Zones," are a unique and diverse ecosystem found along the coasts of Estonia. These zones are characterized by their transitional nature, where freshwater from inland rivers meets saltwater from the Baltic Sea. The estuary zones are crucial for various ecological processes, including nutrient cycling, sediment deposition, and the support of diverse flora and fauna.

The estuary zones of Estonia can be broadly categorized into three main types: freshwater, brackish, and marine zones. The freshwater zone is closest to the river's source and is characterized by low salinity levels. As the water flows towards the sea, it mixes with saltwater, creating the brackish zone, which has intermediate salinity levels. Finally, the marine zone is closest to the open sea and has the highest salinity levels.

These zones support a wide variety of plant and animal species, many of which are adapted to the unique conditions of estuaries. Some notable species include the European eel, which uses the estuaries for spawning, and various bird species that rely on the estuaries for feeding and nesting.

Human activities, such as agriculture, fishing, and tourism, can have significant impacts on the health of these estuary zones. Pollution, habitat destruction, and overfishing are some of the main threats. Therefore, conservation efforts are crucial to preserve the ecological integrity and biodiversity of Estonian estuary zones. These efforts often involve habitat restoration, pollution control, and sustainable resource management practices.