Wetland as Ecosystem: A Review with Special Reference to Gujarat, India

Abstract

Wetlands offer indispensable ecosystem services and make a substantial contribution to global food security. Safeguarding wetlands from swift alterations and excessive exploitation is essential to preserve their functions. This review aimed to examine the various types, classifications, and functions of wetlands, as well as to present findings on recent research conducted in Gujarat regarding the study of wetlands. This research comprises two key elements: an examination of the various wetland definitions and their categorization as documented in scientific literature; and a methodical evaluation of past research endeavours within each region of Gujarat. The results of the study indicated that Gujarat encompasses a diverse spectrum of wetland ecosystems, such as mangrove forests, freshwater lakes, and coral reefs, among various other types, rendering it one of the most ecologically diverse regions within the nation; furthermore, there exists an urgent imperative to augment the competencies of the scientific community in order to address intricate and globally pertinent issues related to the conservation and sustainable management of Gujarat's wetland ecosystems.