What are two of the four main functions of wetlands?

Wetlands play a vital role in the ecosystem through their main functions, which include water filtration and providing habitat for wildlife. The process of water filtration occurs as water passes through wetland plants and soil, where pollutants and sediments can be absorbed or transformed, improving overall water quality. This natural filtration system helps to clean water before it enters larger bodies of water, mitigating the impacts of pollution.

Additionally, wetlands serve as vital habitats for a diverse range of wildlife. They provide breeding, feeding, and nesting grounds for numerous species, including birds, amphibians, fish, and invertebrates. These ecosystems are characterized by their unique plant and animal communities that have adapted to wet conditions, making wetlands incredibly rich in biodiversity.

The other options focus on functions that do not align with the ecological benefits of wetlands. For instance, those involving destruction or development overlook the protective and restorative roles wetlands have within natural environments.