Molecular ecology is the mysterious-sounding name of a field of knowledge with enormous potential. Its practical application applies to areas of the economy that affect us all. Not sure what molecular ecology is? You will find an explanation in this text.
Molecular ecology - what is it?
Of the many branches of the science of ecology, one of the most interdisciplinary is molecular ecology. However, the definition of this science should be preceded by a definition of the tasks that ecology itself sets.
The scientists who study it are interested in the interrelationships between living organisms and the non-living environment in nature. Nowadays, ecology also includes the analysis of human impact on the environment. It is also a science that provides solutions to improve the state of the environment exploited by man.
Molecular ecology draws primarily on the achievements of biology, and more specifically molecular genetics. This is the science that studies the chemical processes responsible for the transmission of genes.
Use of molecular ecology techniques in ecological research
The definition given above may not seem very intelligible to many readers. Far more accessible than a characterisation from a book for biology students is a description of what biochemical (molecular) ecology does.
Advances that have been made in molecular technology have led to the discovery of methods for sequencing the genetic code (DNA). These allow scientists to understand genetic variation and indicate the historical occurrence of species compared to the present.
Molecular ecology also makes it possible to predict future changes and introduce measures to prevent their negative effects. It is also linked to another minor discipline, applied ecology. Its task, in turn, is to study the mechanisms of human degradation of the biosphere.
What does molecular ecology do and how can we apply this knowledge to everyday life?
To fully understand what molecular ecology is, examples of its application will be useful. Its practical use is possible in all industries related to food production. These include agriculture, livestock and fisheries, among others.
Molecular ecology makes it possible to predict, for example, the proliferation potential of invasive species and the direction of their migration. This applies to both plants and animals. This allows individual farmers and food companies to prepare in advance.
In this way, they can protect their agricultural products, for example. Appropriate measures can prevent crops from being damaged by, for example, dangerous new weeds. An example of an invasive species is Sosnovski's hogweed, which is controlled with various herbicides.
Molecular ecology also answers questions about the effects of inbreeding. Too little genetic diversity negatively affects subsequent generations of individuals. By being able to predict the effects, scientists know which species are most at risk of extinction as a result of such practices and prevent them early enough.
Molecular technology shows that ecology is also applicable in the field of genetics. The encyclopaedia may not explain the potential of this scientific discipline, but the examples presented here show how important it is. This is because not only the balance of ecosystems, but also the prosperity of the societies that live in them, depend on it.
