A Glossary of Terminology Used in Marine Biology, Ecology, and Geology
The natural sciences are rich in concepts. The usage of the terminology to name these concepts may change over time and due to mistaken or extended use of terms. Some are adopted from a particular vernacular language where the word may have a different meaning than its use in science (e.g., endemic) and some scientific terms may become used in wider society (e.g., ecosystems). Alternative meanings of the same words can cause confusion, especially among students and nonspecialists not familiar with the nuances of usage. It is thus useful to provide a glossary of how a community defines its terminology at the present time. Here we provide definitions of about 300 terms commonly used in marine ecology, oceanography and geology.
Part of the Encyclopedia of the World's Biomes.