Glossary [ E ]
Ecology
The study of interrelationships among plants, animals and their physical environments.
Ecosystem
The combined living organisms and non-living physical components of the environment and their relationships in any given area, e.g., a small mud flat or the biosphere; through these energy moves and minerals are recycled.
Endemic
Growing or living exclusively within a particular region or locality.
Ephemeral
(Bot.) A plant that germinates, reproduces and dies over a very short period, usually within a few weeks to several months; pertaining to such plants.
Estivation
(Zool.) A period of torpor or dormancy in response to heat or dryness, especially in summer.
