A global perspective on wetland salinization: ecological consequences of a growing threat to freshwater wetlands

Salinization, a widespread threat to the structure and ecological functioning of inland and coastal wetlands, is currently occurring at an unprecedented rate and geographic scale. The causes of salinization are diverse and include alterations to freshwater flows, land‐clearance, irrigation, disposal of wastewater effluent, sea level rise, storm surges, and applications of de‐icing salts. Climate change and anthropogenic modifications to the hydrologic cycle are expected to further increase the extent and severity of wetland salinization. Salinization alters the fundamental physicochemical nature of the soil‐water environment, increasing ionic concentrations and altering chemical equilibria and mineral…

• NS
  National Science Foundation

  Awards: DEB-1458633, 1216916, 1355059, 2011117001, OCE-9982133, 1458633, 9982133
• UD
  U.S. Department of Energy

  Awards: FC02-06ER64298, DE-FC02-06ER64298
• UO
  University of Georgia
• TU
  Tulane University
• SO
  Society of Wetland Scientists
• FU
  Federation University Australia
• OO
  Office of Science