Introduction to Ecology

These flashcards cover key concepts and terminology related to the study of ecology and its various subfields.

Ecology

The study of interactions between organisms and their environment.

Organismal Ecology

Focuses on the individual and its environment, including ecophysiology and behavioral ecology.

Community Ecology

The study of ecological interactions among species, such as competition, predation, and mutualism.

Ecosystem Ecology

Examines interactions between ecological communities and their physical/chemical (abiotic) environment.

Global Ecology

Studies interactions among the biosphere, lithosphere, and atmosphere.

Biotic Conditions

Living factors that affect an ecosystem, such as plants, animals, and microorganisms.

Abiotic Conditions

Non-living physical and chemical factors that influence an ecosystem, like temperature, water, and minerals.

Field Experiments

Research that alters conditions in a natural environment to observe responses and identify possible causes.

Laboratory Experiments

Research that alters conditions in controlled environments to observe responses in a simplified ecological system.

Mathematical Modelling

A type of research that explores theoretical scenarios in highly controlled environments.

Coevolution

The process by which species influence each other's evolution through ecological interactions.