Question

Study of relationship between communities and environment is called
A. Ethnology
B. Ecology
C. Autecology
D. None of the above

Answer 1

Hint: The environment comprises two components- biotic (living) and abiotic (non-living). These components interact with each other and maintain the flow of energy through the living community. This is called Ecosystem.

Complete answer:
As discussed above, the community of living organisms constantly interacts with the non-living components of the environment. This interacting system is called an Ecosystem. The ecosystem comprises the biotic and abiotic factors linked through nutrient cycles and energy flow.
Example- Pond ecosystem is a self-sustained system consisting of living microorganisms and algae as biotic factors interacting with abiotic factors including temperature, minerals etc. The study of such interactions is called Ecology.
Now, let us see each option individually-
A. Ethnology- It is the study of two or more cultures. Ethnologists study the characteristics of different people and the differences and relationships among them.
B. Ecology- It is the branch of science which includes population, community, ecosystem and biosphere. It is the study of organisms and the environment and how they interact with each other at various levels.
Ecologists study the diverse relations among species as well as with their environment, like pollination, predation etc.
C. Autecology- It is the branch of science that deals with the study of relation between a particular species and its environment.

Therefore, the correct answer is option B.

Additional Information-
Let us understand the biotic and abiotic factors
BIOTIC FACTORS- These are the living components of the ecosystem. These include- bacteria, fungi, plants, animals and humans.
ABIOTIC FACTORS- These are the non-living chemical and physical components. These include- sunlight, air, soil, water, minerals etc.

Note:
Importance of ecology-
1. Conservation of environment
2. Resource allocation
3. Sustainable development
4. Conservation of energy