Which of the following is NOT a function of wetlands?

Wetlands play a critical role in the ecosystem by performing various essential functions that support environmental health and biodiversity. Among the numerous benefits that wetlands provide, flood control is significant as they can absorb excess rainfall and runoff, reducing the impact of flooding in surrounding areas. They also serve as natural water filters, trapping pollutants and sediments, thus improving water quality for adjacent bodies of water.

Another vital function of wetlands is their ability to sequester carbon. Through the processes of photosynthesis and the accumulation of organic matter in anaerobic conditions, wetlands help to store carbon and mitigate climate change by reducing greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

On the other hand, soil depletion is not a function associated with wetlands. Rather, wetlands typically enrich the soil by contributing organic material and nutrients, thus enhancing soil fertility. The functions of wetlands focus on conservation, habitat support, and environmental protection, making the assertion that soil depletion is a function of wetlands inaccurate. Therefore, the option mentioning soil depletion correctly identifies something that wetlands do not contribute to.