Ecology is the branch of biology that deals with the relationships between living organisms and their interactions with their environment. This scientific discipline explores how organisms coexist within ecosystems, interact with one another, and adapt to their surroundings. The study of ecology is vital because it provides insight into the functioning of natural systems and the impact human activities have on the environment. It emphasizes the interdependence of all life forms, from microscopic bacteria to the largest animals, and underscores the intricate balance necessary for sustaining life on Earth.

At its core, ecology is concerned with understanding the distribution and abundance of organisms, as well as the processes that shape these patterns. It is a multidisciplinary field that draws from biology, geography, geology, chemistry, and physics. Ecologists examine how factors such as climate, geography, and natural resources influence the diversity of life in different habitats. They also study the effects of human intervention, such as deforestation, pollution, and climate change, on ecosystems.