swamp

A swamp is a type of wetland characterized by water-saturated soils and standing water, where woody vegetation such as trees and shrubs dominates the landscape. Unlike marshes, which are dominated by herbaceous plants, swamps support forested or woody habitats and often experience periodic flooding along rivers, floodplains, or coastlines.

Swamps occur worldwide in tropical, temperate, and boreal regions. They can be freshwater or saline, depending on local hydrology. Freshwater swamps are common along rivers and in floodplains; coastal swamps may feature mangroves or other salt-tolerant species. Common trees include cypress and tupelo in North America, as well as mangroves in tropical coasts.

Soils in swamps are hydric, meaning they are saturated long enough to induce anaerobic conditions. Some swamps accumulate peat and other organic matter. The vegetation and water create complex habitats that support diverse communities of birds, fish, amphibians, reptiles, and invertebrates. Swamps also play roles in flood attenuation, groundwater recharge, and carbon storage through peat formation and slow decomposition.

Threats include drainage, damming, urban development, logging, and invasive species. Conservation efforts focus on protecting remaining swamp areas, restoring hydrology, and managing land use. Notable examples include the Okefenokee Swamp in the United States and the Atchafalaya Basin in Louisiana; coastal mangrove swamps in the Sundarbans and the Everglades region are frequently cited as iconic wetland systems.