How would you define estuaries?

Estuaries are specifically defined as areas where freshwater from rivers and streams meets and mixes with saltwater from the ocean. This unique environment is characterized by its dynamic conditions, which can lead to high levels of nutrients and biodiversity. The mixing of these two types of water creates a unique habitat that supports various plants and animals adapted to both freshwater and saltwater conditions.

In contrast, regions that are entirely freshwater do not include the saline influence of the ocean, making them not estuaries. Coastal areas with only saltwater lack the distinct mixing of freshwater and saltwater, which is the defining characteristic of an estuary. Wetlands that are always dry do not embody the wetland aspect typical of estuaries, as these areas are typically associated with varying water levels, often influenced by tides and river flow. Therefore, the correct definition emphasizes the crucial interaction between freshwater and saltwater that defines estuaries.