Wetlands are among the most productive ecosystems on Earth, often referred to as the “kidneys of the landscape” and the “biological supermarkets” due to their ability to provide multiple ecosystem services that sustain biodiversity, regulate ecological processes, and support human livelihoods. They are transitional zones between terrestrial and aquatic environments, occurring in regions where water remains at or near the surface for part or most of the year. The unique hydrological conditions, soils, and vegetation make wetlands vital ecological assets. Understanding their diverse ecosystem services is crucial for recognizing their role in sustaining aquatic ecosystems and human well-being. One of the most significant services wetlands provide is water purification. Acting as natural filters, wetlands remove sediments, pollutants, and excess nutrients from water through physical, chemical, and biological processes. Sediment trapping occurs as the slow-moving water in wetlands allows suspended particles to settle. Nutrient retention is achieved as wetland vegetation absorbs nitrogen and phosphorus, preventing their over-enrichment in downstream ecosystems. Microbial activity in wetland soils also facilitates denitrification, converting harmful nitrates into nitrogen gas. This cleansing ability protects rivers, lakes, and coastal waters from eutrophication, which otherwise leads to algal blooms and oxygen depletion. Many urban wetlands serve as natural treatment systems for municipal and industrial effluents, reducing the need for costly artificial treatment facilities. Wetlands play a vital role in regulating the hydrological cycle and controlling floods. During periods of heavy rainfall or snowmelt, wetlands act as natural sponges by absorbing and temporarily storing excess water. This reduces the risk of floods downstream by slowing the movement of water and releasing it gradually. Wetlands such as floodplains and riverine marshes are particularly effective in buffering against seasonal inundation, protecting human settlements and agricultural fields. Their capacity to mitigate floods is becoming increasingly important in the context of climate change, where extreme weather events are more frequent. The loss of wetlands in many regions has resulted in increased flood damage, illustrating the irreplaceable value of this ecosystem service. Groundwater recharge is another crucial service provided by wetlands. By allowing water to percolate through the soil profile, wetlands replenish underground aquifers. This is particularly significant in semi-arid and arid regions where groundwater is a primary source of drinking water and irrigation. Wetlands ensure the maintenance of water tables, thus preventing over-extraction and land subsidence. Seasonal wetlands, such as temporary marshes, contribute substantially to groundwater recharge during the wet season, ensuring water availability during drier periods. Wetlands also contribute significantly to climate regulation by functioning as