In what year did Ernst Haeckel found ecology?

Ernst Haeckel, a prominent German biologist, philosopher, and artist, is credited with coining the term "ecology" in 1866. He introduced the concept to describe the complex interactions between organisms and their environment. This foundational idea laid the groundwork for the field of ecology, as it emphasizes how living creatures are interconnected and how they interact with both biotic and abiotic components of their surroundings.

The year 1866 is significant because it marked a pivotal moment in biological sciences, as Haeckel's work brought attention to ecological relationships, helping to establish ecology as a distinct scientific discipline. Understanding this context is critical for recognizing how subsequent research and knowledge in ecology have evolved from Haeckel's foundational definition.