University:
Acadia University
Course:
BIOL 2663 | Marine Biology
Academic year:

2024
Views:

335

Pages:

4
Author:

Nabila N.

The Study of Ecology Ecology is the study of how living organisms interact with each other and their environment. Defining Ecology What is Ecology? Ecology is a branch of biology that studies the interactions between organisms and their environment. Key Concepts Ecology encompasses the study of populations, communities, ecosystems, and the biosphere. Levels of Ecological Organization Biosphere The entire planet and all its living organisms. Ecosystem A community of organisms and their physical environment Community All the populations of different species living in a particular area. Population A group of individuals of the same species living in the same area. Organism An individual living thing. 1 2 3 5 Ecosystem Dynamics 1 Energy Flow Energy flows through ecosystems from producers to consumers. Nutrient Cycling Nutrients are recycled within ecosystems through processes such as decomposition. Ecological Interactions Organisms interact through competition, predation, parasitism, and mutualism Population Ecology 1 Population Growth How populations change in size over time, influenced by factors like birth, death, immigration, and emigration 2 Carrying Capacity The maximum population size an environment can sustainably support. 3 Population Regulation Mechanisms that control population size, such as competition, predation, and disease. Community Ecology Food Webs Interconnected food chains that show how energy flows through a community. Species Diversity The variety of species within a community, measured by richness and evenness. Community Structure The spatial distribution of species within a community, influenced by factors like habitat and competition. Evolutionary Ecology 1 Adaptations Traits that help organisms survive and reproduce in their environment. 2 Natural Selection The process by which individuals with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and reproduce 3 Evolution The gradual change in the genetic makeup of a population over time The Importance of Ecology Understanding ecology is crucial for addressing environmental challenges and ensuring the sustainability of our planet.