Freshwater

Lakes, swamps, rivers and other freshwater environments host many different terrestrial and aquatic species. Animals from fish to bears depend on these habitats to survive and thrive. Here are some animals that contribute to the survival of freshwater ecosystems:

Frogs

Beginning their lives in ponds and swamps as tadpoles, these amphibious animals grow up in and around freshwater. They can often be seeing hopping on lily pads or sunning themselves on rocks. Despite their small size, our little green friends play a huge role in the health of the ecosystem. Some of the helpful things that they do include clearing excess algae from ponds and feeding on harmful insects. We know it’s not easy being green, but we appreciate what you do for us, frogs!

Alligators

Alligators are infamous across the Americas for their formidable jaws and skin that is reminiscent of a dinosaur. However, gators are a natural part of the ecosystem, and they help keep fish, bird and other aquatic and terrestrial populations in check. They don’t like to eat people, but it’s not recommended to get close to one – their bite packs a punch!

Salmon

These fish are extraordinary in the sense that they live in both salt and freshwater environments. They are born in rivers and streams and make their way out the the ocean, spending their lives there until they come back to reproduce and die. Salmon migrations are an amazing spectacle to watch, and salmon provides food for animals such as bears (and us!), and their bodies fertilize the soil of riverbanks. Salmon has got it all: they are good for the environment and tasty!

Birds, a feature creature, are also vital to the survival of freshwater ecosystems. From ducks to herons, birds can be found where there is a thriving ecosystem.