The vulnerability of a wetland to organic matter is dependent on:

• flushing rates and dilution—wetlands with low flushing rates or small dilution are more vulnerable as organic matter (and its associated impacts) is concentrated in a small area for longer periods
• water residence times—wetlands with shorter residence time are less vulnerable than those with long periods of inundation, e.g. permanent lakes
• levels of organic matter—wetlands with naturally higher amounts of organic matter will be less vulnerable to increased organic matter loads
• water depth and vertical mixing—shallow and well mixed system are less vulnerable as re-oxygenation from the surface more rapidly penetrates the whole water column
• stratification and/or poor mixing which may result in areas of anoxia/hypoxia.