Marshes are wetlands that flood with water and are dominated by plants adapted to wet soils.

Marsh within the Loxahatchee Wildlife Refuge. Florida Museum photo by Cathleen Bester
Marsh within the Loxahatchee Wildlife Refuge. Florida Museum photo by Cathleen Bester

Large stretches of freshwater marsh exist throughout the Everglades, providing valuable wildlife habitat. Marshes are defined as wetlands that are flooded with water and dominated by grasses and sedges as well as other plants that are adapted to saturated soils.

Within these marshes, plant communities are variable due to local geology, hydrology, and fire. Marsh habitats are categorized into the following:

These communities provide habitat that allows for the survival of wildlife during even times of flooding and drought.

Freshwater Marsh Surrounded by Sawgrass. Florida Museum photo by Cathleen Bester
Freshwater Marsh Surrounded by Sawgrass. Florida Museum photo by Cathleen Bester

Glossary terms on page: