Miljøfysiologi

Miljøfysiologi, or ecophysiology, is the study of the physiological processes of organisms in relation to their environment. It examines how an organism's internal functions, such as metabolism, respiration, osmoregulation, and thermoregulation, are influenced by external environmental factors like temperature, salinity, oxygen availability, and water balance. The field seeks to understand the adaptations that allow organisms to survive, grow, and reproduce in their specific ecological niches.

This interdisciplinary science draws upon principles from physiology, ecology, and evolutionary biology. Researchers in miljøfysiologi often study a range of organisms, from microorganisms to plants and animals, investigating their responses to both natural and anthropogenic environmental changes. This can include studying how organisms cope with extreme conditions, the physiological impacts of pollution, or the effects of climate change on biodiversity.

Key areas of focus within miljøfysiologi include understanding the limits of tolerance for various environmental factors, the mechanisms by which organisms maintain homeostasis under stress, and the genetic basis for these physiological adaptations. By studying these relationships, scientists gain insights into the distribution and abundance of species, the functioning of ecosystems, and the potential consequences of environmental degradation. The ultimate goal is to predict how organisms and ecosystems will respond to future environmental challenges.