m

ecological dictionary

M

Magnetism

The property that causes attraction and repulsion between magnets, and is created by electric currents.

Malachite

A green colored mineral.

Malacology

The study of mollusks.

Mangrove

A complex ecosystem found at tropical and sub-tropical coasts, for example in Colombia and Panama.

Media

The environment in which organisms live and thrive. Commonly used to describe the environmental requirements needed for bacterial growth, e.g. food and other growth factors.

Malathion

An insecticide used to eliminate bugs in farms and gardens. It is potentially harmful to the environment, and especially to aquatic life. Although it is not considered dangerous to humans in its original form, it is transformed to a more dangerous by-product (metabolite) when broken down in the human body.

Manure

Animal excrement used to fertilize soil.

Mercury

A highly toxic heavy metal used in thermometers, barometers and other scientific apparatus, as well as in dental amalgam. At normal temperatures it exists as a liquid. Its misuse has caused serious health and environmental problems. It attacks the nervous system, causing irritation, nervousness and headaches. Large doses can cause convulsions, coma and death.

Monoculture

The cultivation of land for only one product or crop, such as corn, cotton or coffee.

Mururoa

An island in French Polynesia where nuclear tests are performed.

Mutagens

Chemical compounds that produce changes in the structure of the DNA of which genes are made.

Mutation

A change in the structure of an organism’s genetic material (DNA). Although many mutations can be beneficial, and are part of the evolution of an organism, most are either neutral or damaging.

Mutualism

An interaction between two species in which both organisms benefit. Also called symbiosis.

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