z

ecological dictionary

Z

Zone

An area between boundaries or limits.

Zoocoria

The distribution of fruit and seeds by animals. The seeds of some plants are transported by animals which eat them and then release them in their feces. Other seeds are carried on the bodies of animals and are later released.

Zoogeography

The study of the distribution of animals in different areas.

Zoology

The study of animals.

Zoonosis

A disease which is able to pass from animals to humans, e.g. avian influenza (bird flu) and Japanese encephalitis (See also Japanese encephalitis). Usually these diseases do not normally occur in humans, but are transmitted between animals (which are then called the ‘reservoir’ of the disease). They are only very rarely able to transfer from animals to humans.

Zooplankton

Small aquatic animals, such as protozoans and the larvae of sponges, crustaceans and mollusks. They float on the surface of the water and feed on phytoplankton. Zooplankton are on the same trophic chain as fish.

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