Florida has a remarkably diverse ecosystem with numerous unique ecological communities. The Everglades is one of the ecological communities in Florida. The Everglades are important because they provide habitat to different plants and animal species (Lodge, 2017). The Everglades is also significant in the preservation of some endangered species. Second, it is considered a unique leisure destination due to the rich endowment of flora and fauna. Third, they are the primary source of drinking water for the population of South Florida. Forth, the biodiversity of the Everglades makes them a unique resource for education and ecosystem research (Lodge, 2017). The Everglades are found in southern Florida. The subtropical wetlands extend from Lake Okeechobee toward the Florida Bay.
The Everglades is home to several species both flora and fauna. Some bird species found here include the Bald eagle, pelican, osprey, moorhens, white ibis, and wood storks. The Everglades is also home to some mammals such as; Bottlenose dolphins, rats, deer’s, wild hogs, opossums, manatees, and the Florida panther. The reptiles and amphibians found here include the Florida king snakes, green tree frogs, gopher tortoises, American alligator, eastern diamondback, and American crocodile. Some of the plant species include Mangroves, saw palmetto, Florida peporomia, chalky bluestem, and Florida slash pine.
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The hundreds of species that inhabit the Everglades make preservation of the ecosystem important. Preservation is paramount to ensure these organisms have a sanctuary. Some of the species that inhabit these subtropical wetlands are endangered. Therefore, preserving the ecosystem ensures that the endangered species that are on the verge of extinction have a home and have a chance of survival. Additionally, the species inhabiting the ecosystem are essential to the overall balance of the ecology. For example, adult alligators create holes known as “gator holes” that fill with water and expand yearly. The gator holes act as watering holes during the dry season ensuring the survival for birds, fishes, insects, and turtles (Lodge, 2017).
- Lodge, T. E. (2017). The Everglades handbook: Understanding the ecosystem. Boca Raton: CRC Press.
