Biology

Definition

The natural science devoted to the study of living organisms and life processes, encompassing structure, function, growth, origin, evolution, and distribution of life. In entomology and arachnology, biology specifically addresses organismal-level phenomena such as insect or spider development, physiology, behavior, and ecological interactions, distinguishing these from narrower subdisciplines like taxonomy (classification) or morphology (form).

Etymology

From Greek bios (life) + -logia (study of).

Example

The biology of the periodical cicada (Magicicada) includes its 13- or 17-year underground nymphal development, mass emergence triggered by soil temperature thresholds, and predator satiation strategy—phenomena studied across physiological, behavioral, and population ecology domains.

Related Terms

• entomology
• arachnology
• Ecology
• physiology
• Behavior
• Morphology
• Taxonomy
• Life history

Usage Notes

Contrasts with narrower terms: morphology addresses form, taxonomy addresses classification, and natural history (in modern usage) often emphasizes observational description rather than mechanistic explanation. Specialists may distinguish 'biology' as organismal or whole-animal study versus molecular or cellular approaches. In collection contexts, 'biology' sometimes appears in institutional names (e.g., 'Department of Biology') without implying a specific research focus.