mudflats

Mudflats are coastal wetlands formed in areas where the tide leaves behind a layer of mud and silt. They are typically found along sheltered coastlines, estuaries, and river mouths. During low tide, these flats are exposed, creating expansive, muddy surfaces that support diverse plants, such as grasses and algae, as well as various bird and invertebrate species. Mudflats play a vital role in filtering pollutants, stabilizing shorelines, and providing critical habitats for wildlife. They are dynamic environments that ebb and flow with the tides, contributing to the health and productivity of coastal ecosystems.