Question

The study of the freshwater ecosystem is called
A. Limnology
B. Ethology
C. Synecology
D. Autecology

Answer 1

Freshwater includes lakes, rivers, ponds, springs, streams, etc. This branch of biology deals with the study of these fresh water bodies. This discipline integrates the functional relationships of growth, adaptation, nutrient cycles, and biological productivity.

Complete answer:
The study of the freshwater ecosystem is called limnology. Limnology is derived from two Greek words “limne” means lake and “logos” means study. It is the study of inland aquatic ecosystems. Inland freshwater bodies include lakes, rivers, streams, reservoirs, ponds, springs, etc. It also includes both running and standing water bodies. It is the study of the biological, chemical and physical features of lakes and other bodies of freshwater. The term “Limnology” was coined by Francois Alphonse Forel. People who study limnology are called limnologists. Understanding of the causal mechanisms operating in and controlling our natural world is a primary objective of limnology because of the premier importance of freshwater for the well being of humankind.
Hence, the correct answer is option A.

Additional information: Ethology is the scientific study of animal behaviour under natural conditions. Synecology is the branch of ecology that deals with the relationship between the plant and animal communities and their environments. Whereas, autecology is the branch of ecology that deals with the particular species.

Note: Limnology encompasses the integration of physical, chemical, and biological components of inland aquatic ecosystems with the drainage basin, movements of water through the drainage basin, and biogeochemical changes that occur en route, and within standing (lentic) waters and exchanges with the atmosphere.