Brackish water, a mix of freshwater and seawater, is characterized by a salinity level between that of freshwater and saltwater. For example, estuaries, where rivers meet the ocean, are naturally occurring locations where water exhibits this characteristic. Creating it involves adjusting the salinity to fall within the defined range, typically 0.5 to 30 parts per thousand (ppt).
The creation of water with this intermediate salinity is valuable in aquaculture, where specific species thrive in these conditions. It also plays a role in scientific research, allowing for the controlled study of osmotic processes and species adaptation. Historically, understanding and managing water salinity has been crucial for coastal communities reliant on both freshwater and marine resources.