Fresh water or freshwater is any naturally occurring liquid or frozen water containing low concentrations of dissolved salts and other total dissolved solids. The term excludes seawater and brackish water, …

Every living thing on Earth needs water to survive, but more than 100,000 species, including our own, need a special kind of water that can only be found in certain places and is in very rare supply: fresh …

Aug 7, 2025 · Freshwater biomes support an astonishing diversity of life. Though they make up only about 3% of Earth’s water, they host 10% of all known animal species and 40% of all fish species.

Jul 29, 2025 · From sustaining agriculture and energy to shaping landscapes and communities, freshwater is essential. NASA’s Earth science data helps the nation manage this vital resource, …

Jun 8, 2018 · The definition of freshwater is water containing less than 1,000 milligrams per liter of dissolved solids, most often salt. As a part of the water cycle, Earth's surface-water bodies are …

Jun 16, 2025 · Freshwater ecosystems are characterized by their low salt concentration, typically less than 1% (or 1 part per thousand). This distinguishes them from marine and estuarine ecosystems. …

Freshwater ecosystems are divided into two major classes—flowing (such as rivers and streams) and static (such as lakes and ponds). Although the distribution of species in freshwater ecosystems is not …

Freshwater is defined as having a low salt concentration — usually less than 1%. Plants and animals in freshwater regions are adjusted to the low salt content and would not be able to survive in areas of …

Freshwater is a vital component of life on Earth, essential for human well-being and the health of ecosystems. It sustains agricultural practices, supports diverse ecosystems, and maintains biodiversity.

Dec 23, 2025 · Earth's continents are losing 4 Olympic swimming pools' worth of fresh water every second, with dire consequences for jobs, food security and water availability.