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The Role Of Alligators In The Everglades

170 Words1 Pages
The American alligator is classified by the US Fish and Wildlife Service as threatened, and is likely to become endangered if we fail to protect its habitat. Alligators play a critical role in helping sustain the ecosystem. The state requires permits and licenses to take the alligators.
Besides from previously mentioned prey population control, American alligators can also have a large impact on ecosystems in the Everglades through their ability to function as ecosystem engineers. Adult alligators excavate the wetlands. These depressions retain water in the wetland during dry periods. The extra water present in alligator holes is beneficial to fish, snakes, turtles, insects and many birds.
The tricolored heron is protected by the U.S. Migratory
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