Praxis II Elementary Education (5001) Practice Exam

The presence of more trees is a defining characteristic that distinguishes swamps from marshes. Swamps are wetland areas that are dominated by woody plants, such as trees and shrubs, which thrive in the saturated soil conditions. This abundance of vegetation plays a crucial role in the ecosystem, providing habitat for various animal species and contributing to the overall biodiversity of the area.

In contrast, marshes are characterized primarily by herbaceous plants, such as grasses and reeds, and typically have less tree cover. The vegetation in marshes is adapted to flooding and wet conditions but does not include the woody plants that are prevalent in swamps. Therefore, the significant difference in plant composition, with swamps containing more trees, is a key feature that highlights the distinction between the two types of wetlands.