Estuaries support diverse ecosystems by providing a unique mix of freshwater from rivers and saltwater from the ocean, creating a brackish environment that supports a wide variety of plant and animal species. The nutrients and sediments carried by the river water nourish a variety of plant life, which in turn provides food and habitat for a multitude of organisms. Additionally, the sheltered waters of estuaries serve as important nurseries for many fish and other marine species, contributing to the overall biodiversity of these ecosystems.