Ecotoxicology is the study of how toxic substances affect ecosystems, including plants, animals, and microorganisms. It examines the impact of pollutants, such as heavy metals, pesticides, and industrial chemicals, on living organisms and their environments. By understanding these effects, scientists can assess risks and develop strategies to protect ecosystems. This field combines elements of toxicology, ecology, and environmental science to evaluate the interactions between pollutants and biological systems. Ecotoxicologists conduct experiments and field studies to determine how contaminants affect biodiversity, food webs, and ecosystem health, ultimately aiming to inform policy and conservation efforts.