Ecomorphology

Ecomorphology or ecological morphology is the study of the relationship between the ecological role of an individual and its morphological adaptations. The term "morphological" here is an anatomical context although many parallel mechanisms, resulting patterns, methods of analysis, and emergent properties, likely exist. Both the morphology and ecology occupied by an organism are directly or indirectly influenced by their own environment, and ecomorphology is geared to show and identify the differences However, there is modern emphasis on linking the two aspects of variation by measuring the performance of traits (i.e. sprint speed, bite force, etc.) associated behaviors, and fitness outcomes of the relationships.

Current issues in ecomorphological research focus on a more functional approach and application to the science, as well as broadening the field to welcome further research in the debate and differences between both the ecological and morphological makeup of an organism.