What is "ecotoxicology"?

Ecotoxicology is the examination of toxic chemicals on biological organisms, particularly in relation to ecosystems and the environment. This field evaluates how pollutants and other harmful substances impact not just individual species but also the interactions between organisms and their environments. It addresses the effects of chemicals at various levels of biological organization, which encompasses population, community, and ecosystem health.

Understanding ecotoxicology is crucial, as it informs environmental risk assessments and regulations, helping to protect both wildlife and human health. This interdisciplinary area combines aspects of toxicology, ecology, and environmental science to understand the broader implications of chemical exposure in natural settings.

The other options do not accurately reflect the focus of ecotoxicology. For instance, the study of chemical reactions in laboratories pertains more to pure chemistry rather than ecological effects. Similarly, the concept of how chemicals affect economic systems relates to environmental economics rather than toxicological effects. Lastly, describing ecotoxicology as a yet unrecognized branch of toxicology is inaccurate, as it is a well-established and critical field of study within the broader discipline of toxicology.