What is the net negative effect of saltwater intrusion in coastal wetlands?

The net negative effect of saltwater intrusion in coastal wetlands primarily leads to a loss of land due to the detrimental impact on plant life. Saltwater intrusion occurs when saltwater encroaches into freshwater habitats, which can be caused by rising sea levels, changes in water diversion, and other environmental factors. Many freshwater plant species are not adapted to survive in saline conditions; thus, as salinity increases, these plants may die off or experience stunted growth.

This loss of plant life is critical because plants play a vital role in stabilizing the soil, providing habitat for wildlife, and contributing to the overall health of the ecosystem. As vegetation diminishes, the structure of the wetland can weaken, leading to soil erosion and further land loss. The destabilization of these ecosystems can have cascading effects on the local fauna, which rely on these habitats for shelter and food.

In contrast, the other options either suggest neutral or positive outcomes, which do not align with the typical consequences of saltwater intrusion, making them less relevant in this context.