Estuary - GCSE Geography Definition

An estuary is a coastal area where freshwater from rivers and streams meets and mixes with saltwater from the sea. It is typically characterised by tidal flows and can create unique environments that support diverse ecosystems such as mudflats, salt marshes, and mangroves. Estuaries are vital for wildlife because they provide habitats for many species of fish, birds, and other aquatic organisms, and they also act as nurseries for young marine creatures. In terms of geography, estuaries are important for studying coastal processes, human impacts on natural systems, and the ways in which different elements of physical geography interact. Additionally, they play a crucial role in water filtration and the buffering of coastal regions against the effects of floods and storms.