Wetlands, the transition zones between terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, are characteristically saturated with or covered by water, at least periodically, and soil development and plant and animal communities are determined by water (Cowardin et al. 1979). Natural wetland habitats include marshes, swamps, and bogs. Anthropogenic (man-made) wetlands include taro patches, prawn ponds, some fishponds, and other irrigated croplands. (Charles P. Stone)

In their natural condition, wetlands supply numerous ecological, economic, and cultural benefits to local communities -- including water quality protection, flood control, erosion control, fish and wildlife habitat, aquatic productivity, and unique opportunities for education and recreation. (Text courtesy of catskillcenter.org)

Read more about "Hawaii's Wetlands, Streams, Fishponds and Pools" (PDF 5.6MB) in this article by Charles P. Stone, from the book, Conservation Biology in Hawaii.

See the "List of Hawaii's Wetlands" (PDF 1MB) from the appendix of "Wetlands and Wetland Vegetation of Hawaii" by Elliot & Hall, 1977.