What is a characteristic feature of bogs?

Bogs are unique wetland ecosystems characterized by specific environmental conditions, one of which is their acidic nature. This acidity occurs primarily due to the accumulation of sphagnum moss, which lowers the pH of the water by producing organic acids as it decomposes. The acidic conditions in bogs create a habitat that is often less favorable for many organisms but can support specialized plant species like cranberries and certain types of orchids that have adapted to these conditions.

In contrast, other environments such as fens (which are another type of wetland) typically have more neutral pH levels and are richer in nutrients, enabling a wider variety of plant life. The low nutrient availability in bogs is a result of their waterlogged conditions that prevent rapid decomposition and nutrient cycling, thus further explaining the prevalence of acidic conditions. Understanding this characteristic helps illustrate the unique ecology of bogs and the adaptations of organisms that thrive in them.