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Aquatic Ecosystems in Maine

Lakes, streams, rivers, swamps and coastal waters make up the bulk of aquatic ecosystems in the state of Maine. The interconnectedness of these freshwater and marine systems depends on the the flow of water and health of the surrounding terrestrial habitats along the way. Each major aquatic habitat plays a significant role in the well-being of the other and has sustained this dynamic for millions of years.

Rivers and Streams
- The river and stream ecosystems of Maine are inextricably linked to the riparian (surrounding terrestrial area) habitat. These areas of dry river bank and tree line are inundated frequently by flooding streams and rivers. The nutrient-rich soil that results from these floods supports lush plant growth and better feeding grounds for grazing mammals and grub-hungry amphibians. In addition to the vertebrate species inhabiting this ecosystem are algae and macro-invertebrates such as leeches, snails, dragonfly and damselfly larvae, water beetles and earth worms.
Lakes
- Sebago Lake and Moosehead Lake are two such aquatic ecosystems of Maine. Sebago is notable for being the deepest lake in Maine, while Moosehead holds the title of widest surface area of any lake in the state. Lakes are formed from a number of factors including the erosion of bedrock, glacial displacement and fluvial erosion pressure. The importance of lakes to the terrestrial habitat surrounding them cannot be overstated as each habitat relies on the other to sustain the bountiful sources of food, shelter and nutrients they contain.
Wetlands
- Maine wetlands act as a veritable water filtering system as they catch water from runoff in the root systems of their numerous aquatic plants and use up many of the chemicals that may prove harmful in human drinking water. In addition, the wetlands are effective flood barriers that mitigate the force or extent to which a flood affects the environment. Plants in the wetlands are adapted for constant immersion in water, such that many float along the water's surface or stay submerged throughout their lives.
Coastal
- The rocky Maine shoreline is a crucial habitat for a large number of coral, plant, fish and water fowl species. In addition, the coast serves as a crucial ecological medium for the transport of nutrients, food and sediment from the marine environment to the inland and vice versa. The fisheries industry in the coastal waters of the state has caused significant damage to the ecosystem, resulting in widespread restoration and conservation efforts by the government.

Nature