The Everglade is a large subtropical wetland located in the southern portion of the U.S. state of Florida. It is the largest subtropical wetland in North America and is home to a variety of plant and animal species. The Everglade is made up of three distinct ecosystems: a SWAMP, a FEN, and a MARSH. A SWAMP is a wetland that is dominated by woody plants and is usually flooded for part of the year. A FEN is a type of wetland that is fed by groundwater and is characterized by its alkaline water and grassy vegetation. A MARSH is a wetland that is characterized by its soft, muddy soil and is usually flooded for part of the year. All three of these ecosystems are found within the Everglade and provide a unique habitat for many species of plants and animals.