Ecology

In recent years, ecology has become a household word as widespread concern has developed regarding destruction of the environment, despoliation of tropical forests, pollution, and extinction. In the midst of such alarm, the meaning of the term ecology has become blurred and confused with the term environment. In fact, “preserve the ecology” is an often heard phrase. We should begin, then, by understanding the term ecology. Ecology is the science that focuses on the relationship between organisms and the environment. Plant ecology encompasses plant and animal interactions, plant and plant interrelationships, and the responses of plants to other aspects of the environment. Plants, animals, and human beings all affect one another.