Salt marshes are a highly specialised ecosystem whose plants have adjusted to the harsh living conditions of high salt levels and mechanical strain from wind and currents, as well as tide-induced flooding. Salt marshes are home to about 2,000 species of animal. About 50 per cent of these species can only be found in the salt marsh.
In order to protect and develop these salt marsh habitats, the Master Plan Ems 2050 foresees special measures in the Manslagt neck at the Wadden Sea National Park.