Salt marshes are tidal zones where land meets marine waters. Periodically flooded with salt water, these coastal ecosystems are dominated by salt hay, smooth cordgrass, seaside goldenrod, and other nonwoody, salt-tolerant plants. They provide abundant food and cover for wildlife and nursery grounds for many species of fish and shellfish. Species shown here include brown pelican, common tern, teal and ducks, snowy egret, clapper rail, blue crab, shrimp, mullet, red drum, and oysters. Some species are exclusive residents of salt marshes.