Peatlands - GCSE Biology Definition

Reviewed by: Lára Marie McIvor

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Peatlands are ecosystems where the ground is mostly made of peat, a dark, spongy material formed from partially decayed plant matter. These ecosystems are usually found in cool, wet environments such as bogs and fens. Peatlands are important because they store large amounts of carbon that would otherwise be released into the atmosphere as carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas. They also help regulate water flow, reduce the risk of flooding, and support unique biodiversity. However, peatlands are sensitive to changes such as drainage, burning, and farming, which can damage the ecosystem and release stored carbon. Understanding peatlands is important for protecting biodiversity and tackling climate change.

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Lára Marie McIvor

Reviewer: Lára Marie McIvor

Expertise: Biology, Psychology & Sociology Subject Lead

Lára graduated from Oxford University in Biological Sciences and has now been a science tutor working in the UK for several years. Lára has a particular interest in the area of infectious disease and epidemiology, and enjoys creating original educational materials that develop confidence and facilitate learning.

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