Coastal Wetlands
Coastal wetlands are among the most diverse and productive habitats in Europe. They develop in areas where land, rivers and the sea meet, and are therefore strongly shaped by major changes in salinity, temperature, water levels, and nutrient availability. This mixture of freshwater, brackish water and saltwater enables the development of exceptionally diverse habitats, as well as rich plant and animal life. In the cross-border region between Slovenia and Italy, such areas are found at the mouth of the Soča (Isonzo) River and in the Grado Lagoon, while in Slovenia, they also occur, for example, in the Sečovlje Salines, Škocjanski Zatok and Ankaran.
The area at the mouth of the Soča River is the largest wetland in the cross-border region. It includes reed beds, shallow waters, salt meadows, lagoons, wet meadows, willow thickets, and small freshwater channels. These habitats provide shelter for numerous organisms. The area is especially known for its birds, as many species of ducks, waders, herons and other waterbirds winter or breed here. Among the more interesting species are the European bee-eater (Merops apiaster), western marsh harrier (Circus aeruginosus), and black-winged stilt (Himantopus himantopus). The wetlands are also home to the European pond turtle (Emysorbicularis), which is considered an indicator of well-preserved wetland habitats.
The vegetation of the area is adapted to major changes in salt and water levels. Near the sea, halophytes or salt-loving plants thrive. These include shrubby marsh samphire (Arthrocnemum fruticosum) and sea lavender (Limonium narbonense). Further inland, wet meadows, reed beds and willow thickets become more common. Coastal wetlands also play an important role for people because they help retain water, mitigate floods and provide important areas for research, birdwatching and connection with nature.