What characteristics define a wetland?

Wetlands are unique ecosystems that are primarily defined by three key characteristics: the presence of saturated soils, hydric vegetation, and a standing or flowing water source.

Saturated soils are crucial for identifying wetlands, as they indicate periods where the soil is saturated with water, which can affect the types of plants that grow in these areas. Hydric vegetation refers to species adapted to grow in waterlogged conditions; these plants have special adaptations that allow them to thrive in wet environments. Lastly, the presence of water, either temporarily or permanently, is a defining characteristic of wetlands that distinguishes them from other ecosystems.

The other options describe environments that lack the essential features that characterize wetlands. For example, dry soils and woody plants would point towards a more terrestrial or forested ecosystem, while rocky soil, minimal vegetation, and regular flooding do not correspond to the conditions necessary for a wetland. Similarly, grasslands and drought-resistant plants indicate an area adapted to dry conditions, which fundamentally opposes the wetland environment. Thus, option A correctly encapsulates the defining traits of wetlands.