Paleoecology is the study of ancient ecosystems and the interactions between organisms and their environments over geological time. It uses evidence from fossils, sediment, and other geological materials to reconstruct past climates, habitats, and biological communities. This field helps scientists understand how ecosystems have changed and evolved through time. Researchers in paleoecology often analyze data from ice cores, sediment layers, and fossil records to gain insights into historical biodiversity and environmental conditions. By examining these ancient records, paleoecologists can also assess how past climate changes have influenced life on Earth, providing valuable context for current ecological challenges.