Ecomorphology

Ecomorphology or ecological morphology is the study of the relationship between the ecological role of an individual and its morphological adaptations.[1] The term "morphological" here is in the anatomical context. Both the morphology and ecology exhibited by an organism are directly or indirectly influenced by their environment, and ecomorphology aims to identify the differences.[2] Current research places emphasis on linking morphology and ecological niche by measuring the performance of traits (i.e. sprint speed, bite force, etc.) associated behaviours, and fitness outcomes of the relationships.

Current ecomorphological research focuses on a functional approach and application to the science. A broadening of this field welcomes further research in the debate regarding differences between both the ecological and morphological makeup of an organism.

  1. ^ "Ecomorphology". About.com. Archived from the original on 2013-05-14. Retrieved 2013-05-21.
  2. ^ Norton, Stephen. "The role of ecomorphological studies in the comparative biology of fishes" (PDF). University of South Florida.