African Journal of Ecology and Ecosystems

African Journal of Ecology and Ecosystems ISSN: 9428-167X Vol. 6 (1), pp. 001-010, January, 2019. © International Scholars Journals

Review

Ecological integrity of wetland, their functions and sustainable use

N. Jafari

Department of Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences and Nano and Biotechnology Group, Mazandaran University, Babosar, Iran. E-mail: [email protected]. Tel.: +98-9111184973. Fax: +98-1125242161.

Accepted 11 May, 2018

Abstract

It is estimated that 90% of sewage in cities in developing countries are today discharged untreated into water bodies. The physical, biological, chemical and geologic interactions among different components of the environment that occur within a wetland. Anzali wetland complex is a good example of a natural wetland, characteristic of the South Caspian lowlands. It supports an extremely diverse wetland flora and fauna. Anzali wetland supports over 1% of the regional Middle East wintering populations of several species of waterbirds. Anzali wetland complex as a large and freshwater lagoon fed by several rivers, separated from the Caspian Sea by a dune system; supports extensive reed beds and abundant submerged and floating vegetation. It is vital life support system for many biological communities as it has so many different fishes like caviar that is the best in the world and supports a major commercial fishery. It has marvelous climate and beautiful views for tourists’ attraction as an important recreation center in the north of I. R. Iran.

Key words: Wetlands, function, environmental problem, Caspian sea, Anzali wetland.