Tidal Marsh
Tidal marsh extends from the Gulf to tidal creeks. Dominant plants
are black needle rush and smooth cordgrass. As creeks change from
brackish to fresh, sawgrass becomes common. Red cedar, cabbage
palms, and live oaks occur on islands of high ground and along
the creeks. Although salt marshes appear visually uniform, they
are among the most biologically rich communities on earth. Salt
marshes are protected spawning and nursery areas for thousands
of marine organisms and feeding grounds for a host of terrestrial
and aquatic animals. They also produce abundant nutrients carried
by the tide to the sea.
