Which factor makes wetlands particularly sensitive to changes in the environment?

Wetlands are particularly sensitive to changes in the environment primarily due to their heavy reliance on watershed management. Watersheds play a critical role in the health and functionality of wetlands, as they influence water quantity and quality that reaches these ecosystems. Any alterations in land use, such as urbanization, agricultural practices, or deforestation in the watershed can significantly affect the hydrology and nutrient dynamics of wetlands.

When a watershed is managed poorly or undergoes significant changes, such as increased runoff from urban areas or the application of fertilizers in agricultural zones, the inflow of pollutants and sediment can be detrimental to wetland health. This reliance means that any disturbances to the watershed can lead to rapid changes in wetland characteristics, including hydrology, water chemistry, and habitat quality, making them sensitive to environmental changes.

In contrast, while factors like low biodiversity, high levels of urban development, and limited nutrient input can influence wetland ecosystems, they do not capture the nuanced relationship between wetlands and their surrounding watersheds in the same way as watershed management does. This direct dependence makes the interaction between wetlands and their watersheds a crucial factor in understanding the resilience and sensitivity of these vital ecosystems.