Riparian buffer zone for wetlands

Abstract

Riparian buffer zone is an ecotone located between human-disturbed lands and wetlands, lakes, or rivers. The main functions of the riparian buffer zone is to protect wetland ecosystem through flooding control, water protection, soil con- servation, habitat provision for wild species diversity, and the influence they have on ecosystem processes in wetlands. Width and vegetation composition of ripar- ian buffer zone are the key features that enhance its functions essential to establishing and maintaining healthy wetlands. To achieve a sustainable buffering function for wetlands, careful multidisciplinary planning based on ecological knowledge and socioeconomic context is necessary.