Aquatic ecology is a branch of ecology that focuses on the study of interactions between organisms and their environment in aquatic ecosystems. This field encompasses the study of freshwater, marine, and estuarine environments, and examines the physical, chemical, and biological factors that influence the distribution and abundance of aquatic organisms. Aquatic ecologists study a wide range of topics, including nutrient cycling, species diversity, community structure, and the impacts of human activities on aquatic ecosystems. This research area is important for understanding and conserving the health and biodiversity of aquatic environments around the world.