Estuaries serve as crucial breeding and nursery grounds for various marine life, offering sheltered waters and abundant nutrients.

Estuaries, where rivers meet the sea, are among the most productive ecosystems on Earth. They provide a safe and nutrient-rich environment for fish, shellfish, and other marine species to spawn and grow. While estuaries also help mitigate flooding by absorbing excess water, their primary ecological role is supporting biodiversity. They do not provide fresh water for agriculture, as estuaries are typically brackish (a mix of fresh and salt water). Additionally, while they offer recreational opportunities, their ecological functions are far more significant.