Ecologists are scientists who study the relationships between living organisms and their environments. They examine how plants, animals, and microorganisms interact with each other and with their surroundings, including air, water, and soil. Their research helps us understand ecosystems, which are communities of different species living together in a specific area. Ecologists often focus on various levels of organization, from individual organisms to populations and entire ecosystems. They may work in fields such as conservation biology, wildlife management, or environmental science. Their findings can inform policies aimed at protecting natural habitats and promoting biodiversity.