Wetlands, also known as swamps, marshes, and bogs, are vital ecosystems that support a wide variety of plants and animals. They are characterized by their wet soil, with waterlogged conditions dominating the area during at least parts of the year. Other synonyms for wetlands include fen, mire, and quagmire. These areas exist worldwide, from the Everglades in Florida to the vast peatlands of Siberia, though many have been destroyed due to development and land use changes. Wetlands provide a host of benefits for humans, including water filtration and carbon storage, and are crucial for maintaining the overall health of our planet.