What are wetland ecosystems BEST described as?

Wetland ecosystems are best described as natural filters that improve water quality. This is a fundamental characteristic of wetlands, where the unique combination of soil, water, and vegetation plays a crucial role in filtering out pollutants and sediments from the water that passes through them.

The plants in wetlands are adapted to saturated soil conditions and can take up nutrients and contaminants, effectively purifying the water. This filtering process helps to maintain the overall health of aquatic systems and enhances the quality of water that flows into rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water, making wetlands vital for ecological balance and biodiversity.

While wetlands do support various forms of life, including plant and animal species, their primary ecological function is their ability to purify water, which is why the description as natural filters is the most accurate.