In the twentieth century, having separated from biology into a separate science, ecology begins its life . This discipline immediately began to gain popularity. To date, it continues to develop rapidly. Although it covers a fairly wide range of questions, probably everyone can roughly answer if you ask him: “What is ecology studying?”
The subject of research of this science by different specialists is usually characterized identically. So, when answering the question about what ecology is studying, they say quite simply: the object of study is the interaction of living organisms with their constant habitat. In order to become more clear, a detailed explanation is needed.
Firstly, these are living organisms. If we consider them singly, then they are influenced by three main groups of factors:
- habitat (this may include air humidity, vegetation, the level of illumination of the area, air temperature at night and day, topography and other circumstances);
- other representatives of the fauna (this includes both representatives of the same population that affect the offspring of an individual, its level of protection, as well as representatives of other species and populations that affect the emergence of a competitive environment, diet, behavior of an individual);
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anthropogenic factors (proximity of a person’s housing, his activities in this territory).
Thus, in the environment — among other animals, plants, and humans — behavior patterns are formed in individuals, the diet changes, and, possibly, the place of residence also changes. In other words, adaptation to the environment and its conditions takes place. As we know, it is she who is the main factor in evolution.
What does ecology study yet? Nature itself, that is, the biosphere. Environmentalists are carefully examining how the life on them of some living organisms (and the interaction between them) and human activities affect the appearance and change of certain qualitative and quantitative parameters of territorial natural zones. The effect of physical factors is also studied - the amount of light, temperature, humidity, pressure and others.
Environmental scientists have already achieved a lot in their research. In this they are helped by continuous study and practice.
So, all over the world they go on expeditions in order to examine in more detail something famous or discover and begin to learn new things. As a result of such “working trips,” new species of animals or plants are often discovered, questions about endangered species are solved, new food chains are revealed.
What ecology studies. Modern aspect
At present, when we hear about ecology, we most likely think about our impact on nature. And these thoughts will be true. The fact is that the most problematic issue of ecology lies precisely in the negative impact of man on the environment (emissions of harmful substances into the atmosphere and water, poaching, deforestation and drainage of lakes and swamps). Today, a huge number of public organizations are trying to solve these problems, but it is very difficult. Ordinary people need only not to litter on the street and in water bodies, drive less and eat environmentally friendly products.