Woodlands Usually dominated by one or two tree species and range from widely-spaced trees with a grassy understorey , to denser woodlands with a distinct shrub layer . The structured layers in woodland are what make it so important . From the large dominating trees which provide hollows for feeding , nesting , rearing animal young and important vantage points for many birds that survey the landscape for prey , to the grassy understorey which provides an important habitat for many insects , reptiles and small mammalian species .
Riparian Can be described as the transitional area between the bed of any natural watercourse , creek , river or wetland - and the surrounding landscapes . The width of these areas can vary from a few metres to more than one kilometre . Fertile soils and readily available moisture in riparian areas lead to different vegetation types occurring when compared to the surrounding broad vegetation . These areas provide a unique habitat for many birds , mammals , frogs , reptiles and insects . The availability of water , shade , shelter and food supports a wide range of resident , roaming and migratory species . Riparian areas provide animals refuge in dry seasons and are important pathways allowing animals to move across the landscape .
Wetlands Includes lakes , lagoons , estuaries , rivers , floodplains , swamps , bogs , billabongs and marshes , coral reefs and seagrass beds . Wetlands can be fresh , brackish or saline . However , an area doesn ’ t need to be permanently wet to qualify as a wetland . It just needs to be wet long enough for its plants and animals to be adapted to - or even dependent on - wet conditions for at least part of their life cycle . Wetlands provide refuges to animals during the dry season and are important breeding grounds for many migratory birds , frog and fish species .
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