The Atchafalaya Basin is directly influenced by the Mississippi River’s ecosystem.

Louisiana's Atchafalaya Basin is a sizable wetland region that has been greatly impacted by the ecology of the Mississippi River. Water and silt from the river enter the basin, forming its topography and providing a habitat for a variety of fauna. In addition to providing habitat for a variety of animals, this area is essential for flood control and water purification. One of the biggest swamp ecosystems in the United States, the Atchafalaya Basin is essential to the biodiversity of the area.