How is ecology best defined?

Ecology is best defined as the study of interactions among organisms and their environment. This definition captures the essence of ecology, which examines how living organisms—ranging from plants to animals to microorganisms—interact with each other and their surroundings. These interactions can involve relationships such as predation, competition, symbiosis, and the impact of abiotic factors like climate, soil, and water availability on these organisms.

In ecological studies, a holistic approach is often taken to explore ecosystems, which consist of multiple species and their physical environment. Understanding these interactions is crucial for various applications, such as conservation biology, wildlife management, and tackling environmental issues. This comprehensive perspective highlights that ecology is not just about individual species or genetic variations but focuses on the interconnectedness of life and the environment.