This course will first introduce you to the four levels of biological organization, which include organismal, population, community, and ecosystem. You will also study biogeography, biodiversity, population growth, and extinction risk. The course will then discuss the characteristics of the eight major terrestrial biomes, including tropical wet forests, savannas, subtropical deserts, chaparral, temperate grasslands, temperate forests, boreal forests, and the Arctic tundra. You will also study aquatic biomes, which include saltwater and freshwater biomes.

Next, the course will discuss the causes of changes in climate and the effects of global climate change. You will study modern-day climate change and its association with the increased melting of glaciers and polar ice sheets, which results in an increase in sea level. The course will then cover the effects of the Industrial Revolution, destructive harvesting, and overfishing. You will also learn how this affects important plant and animal systems.

We are all part of the global ecosystem and are dependent on it for our survival. By developing our understanding of our habitat requirements, how we influence each other, and what actions we need to take to ensure survival, we can help build a more sustainable future for everyone. This free online Introduction to Ecology course will give you an in-depth understanding of these vital topics, so check out the course today and learn something truly important about the world you live in.