Estimating the Provision of Ecosystem Services by Gulf of Mexico Coastal Wetlands

摘要: Gulf of Mexico (GOM) coastal wetlands contribute to human well-being by providing many ecosystem services. The GOM region continues experience substantial losses wetlands, but the magnitude reduction in services resulting from loss is unknown. To gain an appreciation impact wetland on services, recent literature was reviewed derive quantitative estimates provided wetlands. provide essential habitat for production juvenile shrimp, which supports GOM’s most valuable commercial fishery; protect communities storm surge; improve water quality removing nitrogen surface waters; and are sinks greenhouse gases due high rates carbon sequestration combined with low methane emission. Using 1998 2004 as a baseline, potential associated presented. Additional research needed quantify at multiple geospatial socioeconomic scales, determine effect demonstrate future management decisions capacity that affect well-being.