Which wetland type includes mangrove swamps and tidal flats?

The correct identification of the wetland type that includes mangrove swamps and tidal flats is based on the characteristics of estuarine wetlands. Estuarine wetlands are typically found at the interface where freshwater from rivers meets and mixes with saltwater from the ocean. This environment is influenced by tidal actions and is characterized by dynamic salinity levels.

Mangrove swamps are specific to coastal intertidal zones, where mangrove trees thrive in salty, tidal waters, while tidal flats refer to areas of wetland that are exposed at low tide and submerged at high tide, often composed of mud and sand. Both of these features are distinctive of the estuarine ecosystem.

In contrast, palustrine wetlands are freshwater environments often found inland, marine wetlands are associated with open ocean conditions typically beyond estuarine influences, and lacustrine wetlands are freshwater systems associated with lakes and their surrounding areas. Therefore, the defining characteristics of estuarine wetlands effectively encompass the types of environments represented by mangrove swamps and tidal flats.