Oceans And Seas Questions
The main difference between an estuary and a lagoon lies in their formation and location.
An estuary is a partially enclosed coastal body of water where freshwater from rivers and streams meets and mixes with saltwater from the ocean. Estuaries are typically found where rivers flow into the sea, creating a unique and dynamic ecosystem. They are characterized by fluctuating salinity levels, tidal movements, and diverse plant and animal species adapted to the brackish water conditions.
On the other hand, a lagoon is a shallow body of water separated from the ocean by a barrier such as a sandbar, coral reef, or barrier island. Lagoons can be found along coastlines and are often connected to the ocean through narrow channels or inlets. Unlike estuaries, lagoons are primarily composed of saltwater and lack the influence of freshwater inflow from rivers. They are typically calmer and less dynamic compared to estuaries.
In summary, the key difference between an estuary and a lagoon is that estuaries are formed by the mixing of freshwater and saltwater, while lagoons are separated from the ocean by natural barriers and consist mainly of saltwater.