Which of the following describes the study of ecosystems?

The study of ecosystems is best described by ecology. Ecology focuses on the relationships and interactions among organisms, as well as between organisms and their environment. This field examines the dynamics of ecosystems, including nutrient cycles, species interactions, and the impact of human activity on ecological systems. It encompasses a wide range of topics, including biodiversity, population dynamics, and community structure, all of which are vital for understanding how ecosystems function and how they can be preserved or restored.

Botany specifically deals with the study of plants and their biology, including their physiology, structure, and ecology, but does not cover the broader interactions found in ecosystems. Zoology focuses on the study of animals, which is also a critical aspect of biology but lacks the comprehensive scope of ecological interactions. Mycology is dedicated to the study of fungi, which is a specific group of organisms rather than the overarching study of relationships and interactions within ecosystems. Therefore, ecology encapsulates the study of ecosystems in its entirety.