Ecology-PPT.ppt

1、Ecology,c e s t la vie,The definition of ecology Ecology is the scientific study of the relations that living organisms have with respect to each other and their natural environment. Variables of interest to ecologists include the composition, distribution, amount (biomass), number, and changing sta

2、tes of organisms within and among ecosystems.,Modern ecology,Modern ecology branched out of natural history and matured into a more rigorous science in the late 19th century. Charles Darwins evolutionary treatise including the concept of adaptation, as it was introduced in 1859, is a pivotal corners

3、tone in modern ecological theory,An understanding of how biodiversity affects ecological function is an important focus area in ecological studies. Ecologists seek to explain: Life processes and adaptations Distribution and abundance of organisms The movement of materials and energy through living c

4、ommunities The succession development of ecosystems, and The abundance and distribution of biodiversity in context of the environment.,Human ecology is the interdisciplinary investigation into the ecology of our species. Human ecology may be defined,(1) from a bio-ecological standpoint as the study

5、of man as the ecological dominant in plant and animal communities and systems; (2) from a bio-ecological standpoint as simply another animal affecting and being affected by his physical environment; (3) as a human being, somehow different from animal life in general, interacting with physical and mo

6、dified environments in a distinctive and creative way.,Some pictures about ecology,. The diversity of life is organized into different habitats, from terrestrial (middle) to aquatic ecosystems.,.,Symbiosis: Leafhoppers (are protected by ants) in a symbiotic relationship. The ants protect the leafhoppers from predators and in return the leafhoppers feeding on plants exude honeydew from their anus that provides energy and nutrients to tending ants.,.,Biodiversity of a coral reef. Corals adapt and modify their environment by forming calcium carbonate skeletons that provide growing conditions f