What is an estuary and why is it important in our ecosystem?

An estuary is an enclosed coastal body, partially enclosed and consisting of brackish water with one or more streams/rivers flowing into it. It is notable for its free connection to the open sea

Estuaries are important in our ecosystems as they filter out sediments and pollutants from water bodies like rivers and lakes before it flows into the oceans, thus providing cleaner waters for marine life.

For more relevant articles refer to the links given below:

• UPSC Environment and Ecology Questions
• Conservation of Biodiversity
• UPSC Environment and Ecology