mires

Mires are wetlands characterized by the accumulation of peat—a type of organic soil made from partially decomposed plant material. They form in areas where water saturates the soil, preventing decay and creating unique ecosystems. Mires include bogs and fens and play a vital role in carbon storage, water filtration, and supporting diverse plant and animal species. Their wet, nutrient-poor conditions shape distinctive plant communities, like mosses and sphagnum. Mires are important for environmental health and climate regulation, acting as natural carbon sinks and providing habitat for specialized wildlife.