There are 127 nature words that start with the letter E. From Eagle to Eyespots. Nature words encompass a vast array of terms that describe the natural world, including flora, fauna, geological formations, weather phenomena, and ecosystems. These words are essential in both scientific and everyday language, allowing for effective communication about the various elements and processes that shape our environment. The richness of natural vocabulary reflects the diversity and complexity of nature itself, ranging from common terms that anyone can understand to specialized terminology used by scientists and environmentalists. Understanding and utilizing nature words can enhance appreciation for the interconnectedness of life on Earth and the importance of preserving our natural resources.

An interesting fun fact about nature words is that many of them have etymological roots in ancient languages, such as Greek and Latin. For instance, the word “ecosystem” is derived from the Greek word “oikos,” meaning “house,” and “system,” indicating an organized whole. This etymology highlights how human language has evolved to describe nature and its intricate relationships over millennia, reflecting humanity’s enduring curiosity and connection to the environment.

Here’s what each of the columns in the table means:

Field: This column represents the specific area of study or interest related to the nature word, indicating whether it pertains to ecology, biology, geology, or another branch of natural sciences.

Definition: This column provides a concise and clear explanation of the term, giving users a straightforward understanding of what the word means in the context of nature.

Description: This column offers additional context or elaboration about the term, which may include examples, usage, relevance in scientific research, or significance in ecological discussions, providing a more comprehensive understanding of the word’s application and importance.

Nature words That Start With E

Nature words field definition
Eagle Bird Raptor
Eagret Bird Small heron
Eardrop Plant Hanging flower
Earthstar Fungus Unusual mushroom
Earthworm Invertebrate Soil Organism
Earwig Insect A small nocturnal insect with pincer-like appendages at the rear of its body
Ebony Tree Wood
Ecdysis Biology The process of shedding an outer layer of skin or cuticle during molting in arthropods and some other animals.
Ecesis Ecology The establishment and development of a plant or animal population in a new environment.
Echeveria Plant A genus of succulent plants in the family Crassulaceae
Echidna Mammal A spiny, egg-laying mammal native to Australia and New Guinea
Echinacea Herb A genus of flowering plants in the daisy family, known for its medicinal properties
Echinoderm Animal Marine Invertebrate
Echinopsis Plant A genus of cacti native to South America
Echiuran Animal A type of marine worm in the phylum Echiura
Echolocation Biology The biological sonar used by some animals to detect and locate objects in their environment.
Ecohydrology Science The study of the interactions between water and ecosystems
Ecoregion geography,ecology A large area of land or water that is characterized by a distinct climate, vegetation, wildlife, and other natural features.
Ecosphere Ecology The global ecosystem that encompasses all living organisms and their physical environment
Ecosystem Environment A community of living organisms (plants, animals, and microbes) interacting with each other and their physical environment
Ecotone Ecology A transitional zone between two adjacent ecological communities
Ecotype Biology Genetically distinct population
Ectomycorrhiza Biology Fungal root association
Ectoplasm Biology The outer, gel-like layer of a cell’s cytoplasm
Edaphic Environment Relating to or influenced by the soil
Edaphic Factor Ecology Any soil-related environmental factor that affects the growth and distribution of organisms
Edaphosaurus Paleontology Herbivorous reptile
Edelweiss Flower Alpine Plant
Edible Mushroom Fungus Food
Eel Fish Aquatic
Eelgrass Plant Aquatic
Eelpout Fish Eel-like fish
Eelworm Invertebrate Parasitic roundworm
Efflorescence mineralogy The formation of a powdery, crystalline deposit on the surface of a material, often caused by the evaporation of a solution.
Effluent Environmental Science Waste material discharged into the environment, often from industrial or wastewater treatment processes
Efflux Biology Outward movement
Eft zoology The terrestrial juvenile stage of certain salamander species.
Egalitarian Hypothesis anthropology,ecology A theory that suggests early human societies were egalitarian, with a relatively equal distribution of resources and power.
Egremont Russet Plant Apple cultivar
Egret Ornithology A type of small to medium-sized heron with white or buff-colored plumage.
Ehretia Plant Flowering tree
Eichhornia Botany A genus of free-floating aquatic plants commonly known as water hyacinths.
Eicosanoid Biology Lipid signaling molecule
Ejecta geology Material that is thrown out or expelled, especially from a volcano or impact crater.
Elaiosome Botany An appendage on some plant seeds that attracts ants for seed dispersal.
Eland Mammal Large antelope
Elasmobranch Zoology A group of cartilaginous fishes that includes sharks, rays, and skates
Elater zoology A spring-loaded mechanism that allows some insect larvae, like click beetles, to jump or flip themselves over.
Elateridae Invertebrate Click beetle family
Elderberry Shrub Fruit
Elderflower Plant Edible flower
Eldorado Ecology A mythical land of great wealth and abundance
Elecampane Plant Medicinal herb
Elephant Ear Plant Foliage
Elephant Grass Plant Tall grass
Elephant Seal zoology A large, migratory seal species known for the male’s prominent, trunk-like snout.
Elk Mammal Ungulate
Elk Sedge Plant Grasslike plant
Elm Tree Wood
Elm Spanworm Insect Caterpillar pest
Elodea Plant A genus of freshwater aquatic plants
Eluviation pedology The process by which dissolved substances are leached or washed out of the upper layers of soil.
Embolism Biology Vascular blockage
Embothrium Plant A genus of shrubs and trees in the family Proteaceae
Embryophyte Botany A plant that produces embryos, including all land plants.
Emergent Ecology A plant that grows with its leaves and stem extending above the surface of a body of water
Emergent Vegetation ecology Plants that are rooted in shallow water but have the majority of their stems, leaves, and flowers extending above the water’s surface.
Empetrum Plant Evergreen shrub
Enantiornithes paleontology An extinct group of primitive, toothed birds that lived alongside dinosaurs during the Cretaceous period.
Encelia Shrub Desert Plant
Enchytraeidae Zoology A family of small, white terrestrial oligochaete worms known as potworms.
Enclosing Membrane Biology Plant cell structure
Endocarp Plant Fruit layer
Endodermis Plant Root structure
Endolithic biology Organisms that live within the pores or cracks of rocks or other solid substrates.
Endomycorrhiza botany A type of symbiotic relationship between plant roots and fungi that live within the plant’s tissues.
Endophyte Plant A microorganism, such as a fungus or bacteria, that lives within a plant without causing apparent disease
Endosperm Plant Seed storage tissue
Energid Biology Unit of life
Engorge Biology Swelling of tissues
Engraulidae Animal A family of small, marine fish known as anchovies
Enokitake Fungus Edible Mushroom
Ent Mythology Tree-like being
Entamoeba Protist Parasitic amoeba
Entomology Science Study of insects
Entomopathogenic Biology Relating to a microorganism that infects and kills insects
Entomophily Biology Insect pollination
Eocene geology The geological epoch spanning from about 56 to 33.9 million years ago, part of the Paleogene period.
Ephemerality ecology The quality of being short-lived or transient.
Ephemeroptera Entomology An order of insects commonly known as mayflies.
Ephydridae Invertebrate Fly family
Epibionts Biology Surface-dwelling organisms
Epicranium Invertebrate Insect head structure
Epidermis Plant Outer cell layer
Epigeal Plant Above-ground germination
Epigean ecology Relating to or living on the surface of the ground, as opposed to underground or aquatic environments.
Epigeic Ecology Living or occurring on the surface of the soil
Epipedon Soil Science Surface soil horizon
Epipelagic Ecology The uppermost layer of the ocean’s pelagic zone
Epiphyllous Plant Growing on the surface of a leaf
Epiphyte Plant Symbiotic
Epithelium Biology Lining tissue
Epizoan Biology Externally-dwelling organism
Equisetum Plant Horsetail
Erect Plant Upright growth
Eremophila botany A genus of shrubs and small trees native to Australia, adapted to hot, dry, and arid environments.
Erica Shrub Heath Family
Erlenmeyer Flask Laboratory Equipment Conical glass container
Erosion geology The process by which the surface of the Earth is worn away by the action of water, wind, ice, or other natural forces.
Erythrism Biology Red pigmentation
Erythrophyll Plant A red or reddish-colored pigment in plants
Espalier Horticulture Trained plant form
Estuarine Environment Relating to an estuary, a coastal area where freshwater from rivers and streams mixes with seawater
Estuary Ecosystem Coastal transition zone
Etheostoma Ichthyology A genus of freshwater ray-finned fish commonly known as darters.
Eucalyptus Tree Hardwood
Euglena Protist Flagellated algae
Eupatorium Plant Flowering herb
Eutrophic Ecology A body of water that is rich in nutrients and supports a dense growth of algae and other organisms
Eutrophication Environment The process by which a body of water becomes overly enriched with minerals and nutrients, resulting in excessive plant growth and depletion of dissolved oxygen
Evapotranspiration Ecology Water loss from plants
Evening Primrose Flower Onagraceae
Everglade ecology A type of wetland ecosystem found in southern Florida, characterized by slow-moving, nutrient-rich water and a diversity of aquatic vegetation.
Evergreen Plant Foliage
Exoskeleton Animal Structure
Exudates Plant Substances that are secreted or exuded from plants
Eyespots Animal Adaptation

Descriptions

Eagle
A large bird of prey known for its keen eyesight, powerful talons, and majestic soaring. Eagles are found on every continent except Antarctica and are revered as national symbols in many countries.
Eagret
A small heron with white plumage, found in wetland habitats in parts of Europe, Africa, and Asia.
Eardrop
A flowering plant with bell-shaped, pendant blooms that resemble eardrops, commonly found in woodlands and shaded areas.
Earthstar
A type of puffball fungus with a star-shaped outer layer that splits open to reveal the spore-containing inner body.
Earthworm
A cylindrical invertebrate that burrows through soil and helps aerate and enrich it. Earthworms play a vital role in decomposing organic matter and improving soil fertility for plant growth.
Earwig
Earwigs are small, nocturnal insects known for their distinctive pincers at the rear of their abdomen. They are mostly harmless to humans, living on plants and eating decaying matter, though some species can damage crops.
Ebony
A dense, dark-colored hardwood tree native to tropical regions, prized for its exceptional hardness, durability, and ability to take a high polish. Ebony has been used for centuries in fine furniture, musical instruments, and decorative objects.
Ecdysis
Ecdysis is a crucial stage in the growth and development of many invertebrate species, allowing them to shed their exoskeletons and expand in size.
Ecesis
Ecesis refers to the initial colonization and subsequent integration of a species into a new ecosystem, a key process in ecological succession.
Echeveria
Echeverias are native to Mexico and Central America and are known for their distinctive rosette-shaped leaves and vibrant flowers. They are popular in gardens and as houseplants due to their low maintenance and striking appearance.
Echidna
The echidna is a unique mammal that lays eggs and has a body covered in sharp spines. It is one of only two egg-laying mammals, along with the platypus, and is found in the wild in Australia and New Guinea.
Echinacea
Echinacea is a genus of flowering plants native to eastern and central North America. Several species of Echinacea are used in herbal medicine, as they are believed to have immune-boosting properties and may help alleviate cold and flu symptoms.
Echinoderm
A group of marine invertebrates that includes starfish, sea urchins, and sea cucumbers. Echinoderms are known for their radial symmetry, tube feet, and diverse array of shapes, sizes, and behaviors.
Echinopsis
Echinopsis cacti, also known as Hedgehog cacti, are recognized by their globular or columnar shape and colorful, often fragrant flowers. They are popular in xeriscaping and rock gardens due to their drought-tolerance and easy care requirements.
Echiuran
Echiurans, or ‘spoon worms,’ are a group of unsegmented, burrowing marine invertebrates that are found in tropical and temperate ocean habitats. They are known for their distinct proboscis, which they use to gather food from the seafloor.
Echolocation
Echolocation is used by bats, whales, and other animals to navigate, find prey, and avoid obstacles by emitting high-frequency sounds and analyzing the returning echoes.
Ecohydrology
Ecohydrology examines how the movement and quality of water influences the structure and function of ecosystems, and how changes in ecosystem properties in turn affect the water cycle.
Ecoregion
Ecoregions are defined based on factors like geology, hydrology, climate, and the distribution of plants and animals. They are used in conservation planning and environmental management.
Ecosphere
The ecosphere, or biosphere, is the integrated global system that includes all of Earth’s ecosystems, including the atmosphere, hydrosphere, and lithosphere. It is the complete, self-sustaining environment for life on our planet.
Ecosystem
An ecosystem is a complex, interconnected system of living organisms and their physical environment. It includes the biotic (living) components, such as plants and animals, as well as the abiotic (non-living) components, like air, water, and soil, that together form a functional unit.
Ecotone
Ecotones often exhibit a mix of the characteristics of each bordering community and can contain species not found in the overlapping communities, creating a unique blend of biodiversity.
Ecotype
A genetically distinct population of a species that is adapted to specific environmental conditions within the species’ overall range.
Ectomycorrhiza
A symbiotic relationship between the roots of certain plants and fungi, where the fungi help the plant absorb water and nutrients from the soil.
Ectoplasm
Ectoplasm refers to the external, semisolid region of a cell’s cytoplasm, which provides structure and support for the cell’s organelles and other internal components. It plays a key role in cellular processes such as locomotion and signaling.
Edaphic
Edaphic factors refer to the physical and chemical characteristics of the soil that influence the growth and distribution of plants and other organisms within an ecosystem. Factors like soil pH, nutrient availability, and soil moisture are considered edaphic.
Edaphic Factor
Edaphic factors include soil pH, nutrient availability, texture, and structure, which can significantly influence the types of plants and animals that can thrive in a particular location.
Edaphosaurus
A large, herbivorous reptile that lived during the Permian period, characterized by a sail-like structure on its back.
Edelweiss
A small, white flower found in the high-altitude alpine regions of Europe. Edelweiss is a symbol of purity, courage, and the rugged beauty of the mountains, and is highly prized by mountain climbers and hikers.
Edible Mushroom
A type of mushroom that is safe for human consumption and cultivated or collected from the wild for culinary purposes. Edible mushrooms come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and flavors, and are highly valued for their nutritional and culinary properties.
Eel
A long, snake-like fish that lives in both freshwater and saltwater environments. Eels are known for their unique anatomy, including their ability to burrow into sediments and their complex life cycles, which often involve long-distance migrations.
Eelgrass
A type of submerged aquatic plant that grows in coastal waters and estuaries. Eelgrass provides important habitat and food for a variety of marine life, and its beds help stabilize sediments and improve water quality.
Eelpout
A type of fish that resembles an eel, with a long, slender body and small, fleshy fins, found in cold ocean waters.
Eelworm
A type of microscopic, worm-like nematode that can be a parasite of plants, animals, or other organisms.
Efflorescence
Efflorescence is commonly seen on bricks, concrete, or other porous materials as salts migrate to the surface and crystallize. It can indicate the presence of underlying water or moisture issues.
Effluent
Effluents can contain a variety of pollutants and can have negative impacts on the surrounding ecosystems if not properly treated or managed.
Efflux
The process by which a substance, such as a chemical or gas, moves outward from a cell or organism.
Eft
Efts are the land-dwelling phase in the life cycle of some newts and other salamanders, before they transform into their aquatic adult form.
Egalitarian Hypothesis
The egalitarian hypothesis challenges the traditional view of early human societies as hierarchical, suggesting they were more cooperative and equitable in the distribution of food, tools, and other resources.
Egremont Russet
A heritage apple cultivar originating in England, known for its distinctive russeted skin and rich, sweet-tart flavor.
Egret
Egrets are wading birds found in wetlands, marshes, and estuaries that use their long, sharp bills to catch fish, frogs, and other aquatic prey.
Ehretia
A genus of flowering trees and shrubs found in tropical and subtropical regions, often used in landscaping and traditional medicine.
Eichhornia
Water hyacinths are invasive species that can rapidly cover the surface of ponds, lakes, and slow-moving rivers, disrupting ecosystems and impeding navigation.
Eicosanoid
A class of lipid-derived signaling molecules that play important roles in various physiological and pathological processes, such as inflammation and immune response.
Ejecta
Volcanic eruptions and meteorite impacts can blast ejecta, such as ash, rock fragments, and dust, high into the air and spread it over a wide area.
Elaiosome
Elaiosomes are lipid-rich structures that provide a food reward for ants, which then carry the seeds back to their nests and discard the seed, allowing it to germinate.
Eland
A large species of antelope native to parts of Africa, known for its impressive spiral-shaped horns and impressive size.
Elasmobranch
Elasmobranchs are characterized by their boneless skeletons, placoid scales, and gill slits on the sides of the head, and play important roles in marine food webs.
Elater
The elater is a specialized structure that acts like a catapult, allowing these insects to quickly escape danger or right themselves if turned over.
Elateridae
A family of beetles, commonly known as click beetles or snapping beetles, characterized by their ability to flip themselves over when turned upside down.
Elderberry
A deciduous shrub that produces clusters of small, dark-colored berries. Elderberries are a rich source of antioxidants and have been used in traditional medicine and for culinary purposes, such as in jams, pies, and wine.
Elderflower
The fragrant, creamy-white flowers of the elderberry plant, which are commonly used in beverages, syrups, and culinary preparations.
Eldorado
The concept of Eldorado is often used to represent the ideal, untouched natural environment that humans strive to protect or restore.
Elecampane
A tall, herbaceous plant with yellow flower heads, historically used in traditional medicine for its medicinal properties, such as treating respiratory conditions.
Elephant Ear
A large, tropical plant with broad, heart-shaped leaves that resemble the ears of an elephant. Elephant ears are grown as ornamental plants in gardens and landscaping, and some species are also cultivated for their edible tubers.
Elephant Grass
A tall, robust grass species native to Africa, known for its impressive size and use as a source of biomass for biofuel production.
Elephant Seal
Elephant seals are found in the Southern Ocean and the northern Pacific. They are the largest members of the seal family, with males reaching over 4 meters in length.
Elk
A large, antlered member of the deer family found in North America and parts of Asia. Elk are known for their impressive size, majestic antlers, and distinctive bugling calls during the breeding season.
Elk Sedge
A species of sedge that resembles elk antlers, often found in moist, forested areas of North America.
Elm
A deciduous tree with a distinctive, spreading canopy and rough, corrugated bark. Elm wood has been used for a variety of purposes, including in the construction of furniture, boats, and musical instruments.
Elm Spanworm
The larvae of a moth species that feeds on the leaves of elm trees, causing defoliation and potentially damaging the trees.
Elodea
Elodea, also known as waterweed or anacharis, are submerged aquatic plants that are native to the Americas. They are commonly used in aquariums and ponds due to their oxygenating properties and ability to provide habitat for aquatic wildlife.
Eluviation
Eluviation occurs as water percolates downward through the soil profile, carrying away soluble minerals and organic matter from the topsoil and depositing them in lower horizons.
Embolism
A blockage in the vascular system of a plant, often caused by air bubbles or foreign particles, which can disrupt the flow of water and nutrients.
Embothrium
Embothrium, or Chilean firebush, is a genus of evergreen plants native to South America. They are known for their vibrant, fire-engine red flowers that bloom in the spring and attract a variety of pollinators.
Embryophyte
Embryophytes, also known as land plants, are a major group of plants that include mosses, ferns, gymnosperms, and angiosperms, all of which have evolved specialized tissues and adaptations for life on land.
Emergent
Emergent plants, such as cattails and reeds, play important roles in wetland ecosystems by providing habitat, stabilizing sediments, and filtering water.
Emergent Vegetation
Common examples of emergent vegetation include cattails, reeds, and water lilies, which play important roles in wetland ecosystems, providing food and habitat for various aquatic organisms.
Empetrum
A genus of low-growing, evergreen shrubs found in cool, northern climates, known for their small, berry-like fruits.
Enantiornithes
Enantiornithes were the dominant birds of their time, diverging from the lineage that led to modern birds. They had features like clawed fingers on their wings and teeth, but also some avian adaptations like feathers and wings.
Encelia
A genus of drought-tolerant shrubs native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. Encelias are known for their yellow, daisy-like flowers and their ability to thrive in arid, desert environments.
Enchytraeidae
Enchytraeids are important decomposers in soil ecosystems, breaking down organic matter and increasing nutrient availability for plants.
Enclosing Membrane
The outermost layer of a plant cell, which acts as a barrier and regulates the exchange of materials between the cell and its environment.
Endocarp
The innermost layer of a fruit, often hard or woody, that surrounds and protects the seed(s).
Endodermis
A specialized layer of cells in the root of a plant that acts as a selective barrier, regulating the movement of substances into the central cylinder.
Endolithic
Endolithic organisms, such as certain lichens, algae, and bacteria, can thrive in the tiny spaces and crevices within rocks, taking advantage of the shelter and moisture they provide.
Endomycorrhiza
In endomycorrhizal associations, the fungal hyphae penetrate the plant’s root cells, allowing the fungi to obtain carbohydrates from the plant while providing the plant with improved access to soil nutrients and water.
Endophyte
Endophytes are microorganisms that live within the tissues of plants without causing harm to the host plant. Some endophytes can provide benefits to the plant, such as improved resistance to pests or environmental stress, or the production of useful secondary metabolites.
Endosperm
The nutritive tissue inside the seeds of many plants, which provides food for the developing embryo during germination.
Energid
A term used to describe the fundamental unit of life, consisting of a nucleus and the surrounding cytoplasm, often used in the context of plant and fungal cells.
Engorge
The process in which tissues become swollen or enlarged, often due to increased blood flow or the accumulation of fluids.
Engraulidae
Engraulidae, or anchovies, are small, schooling fish that are found in temperate and tropical oceans around the world. They are an important food source for larger predatory fish, seabirds, and marine mammals, and are also commercially harvested for use in various food products.
Enokitake
A small, delicate mushroom with long, slender stems and small caps. Enokitake mushrooms are commonly used in Asian cuisine, particularly in soups and stir-fries, and are prized for their delicate flavor and crunchy texture.
Ent
In J.R.R. Tolkien’s fantasy world, a sentient, tree-like being that acts as a guardian and protector of the ancient forests.
Entamoeba
A genus of single-celled, parasitic amoebas that can cause human diseases such as amoebiasis, usually transmitted through contaminated food or water.
Entomology
The scientific study of insects, including their anatomy, behavior, ecology, and evolution.
Entomopathogenic
Entomopathogenic organisms, such as certain fungi, bacteria, and viruses, are capable of infecting and killing insects and other arthropods. They are studied for their potential use as biological control agents against agricultural pests and disease-carrying insects.
Entomophily
The pollination of plants by insects, such as bees, butterflies, and moths, which transport pollen from one flower to another.
Eocene
The Eocene was a time of major evolutionary changes, with the emergence of many modern mammalian orders and the diversification of flowering plants. It is named for the relatively recent (in geological terms) appearance of modern fauna.
Ephemerality
Ephemerality is a characteristic of many natural phenomena, from the brief blooming of certain flowers to the rapid life cycles of some insects, emphasizing the dynamic and constantly changing nature of ecological systems.
Ephemeroptera
Mayflies are aquatic insects that undergo a dramatic transformation, emerging from the water as adults with delicate, short-lived winged forms that are important food sources for fish and other wildlife.
Ephydridae
A family of small, shore-dwelling flies, often found near bodies of water, including lakes, streams, and coastal areas.
Epibionts
Organisms that live attached to the surface of another organism, such as algae growing on the shells of turtles or barnacles on the hulls of ships.
Epicranium
The uppermost part of an insect’s head, which includes the compound eyes, antennae, and other sensory structures.
Epidermis
The outermost layer of cells in a plant, forming a protective barrier against the environment and regulating the exchange of gases and water.
Epigeal
Referring to a type of seed germination in which the cotyledons (seed leaves) emerge above the ground, as opposed to hypogeal germination, where they remain below the soil.
Epigean
Epigean organisms, such as many insects, spiders, and small mammals, inhabit the aboveground portions of terrestrial ecosystems, in contrast to hypogean species that live underground.
Epigeic
Epigeic organisms are those that inhabit the uppermost layer of the soil, including leaf litter, decaying organic matter, and the soil surface. This includes many decomposer organisms, such as earthworms, insects, and microbes, that play a crucial role in nutrient cycling within ecosystems.
Epipedon
The uppermost soil horizon, which is the most biologically active and influenced by surface processes, such as weathering and organic matter accumulation.
Epipelagic
The epipelagic zone, also known as the ‘sunlit zone,’ is the topmost layer of the ocean that extends from the surface down to a depth of approximately 200 meters. This zone receives sufficient sunlight to support photosynthesis and is home to a diverse array of plankton, fish, and other marine life.
Epiphyllous
Epiphyllous organisms, such as certain fungi, algae, and bryophytes, live on the surface of plant leaves without penetrating the leaf tissue. This type of symbiotic relationship is common in tropical rainforests and other humid environments.
Epiphyte
A type of plant that grows on other plants, but is not parasitic. Epiphytes, such as some orchids and bromeliads, obtain moisture and nutrients from the air and rainfall, and use their host plants for support and exposure to sunlight.
Epithelium
The thin layer of cells that lines the internal and external surfaces of the body, including the skin, mucous membranes, and blood vessels.
Epizoan
An organism that lives on the surface of another organism, such as a parasite that lives on the skin or fur of a host animal.
Equisetum
A genus of primitive, vascular plants known as horsetails or scouring rushes, characterized by their jointed stems and whorled leaves.
Erect
Referring to a plant or plant part that grows upright, perpendicular to the ground, as opposed to a spreading or prostrate growth habit.
Eremophila
Eremophila species, commonly known as fuchsias or emu bushes, are well-suited to the harsh conditions of the Australian outback, with features like waxy, drought-resistant leaves and showy, often bee-pollinated flowers.
Erica
A genus of small, evergreen shrubs known as heather or heath plants. Ericas are widely distributed in Europe, Africa, and Asia, and are known for their delicate, bell-shaped flowers and their adaptations to thrive in nutrient-poor, acidic soils.
Erlenmeyer Flask
A common laboratory glassware item, characterized by its distinctive conical shape with a long, narrow neck, often used for chemical reactions and experiments.
Erosion
Erosion can gradually reshape landscapes over time, carving canyons, valleys, and other geological features, and is an important factor in the cycling of sediments and nutrients.
Erythrism
A genetic condition in animals that results in an unusually high level of red pigmentation, causing the individual to appear reddish or ‘ginger’ in color.
Erythrophyll
Erythrophylls are a group of red or reddish-colored pigments found in the leaves, stems, and other tissues of some plants. These pigments, which include anthocyanins and carotenoids, play a role in photosynthesis, light absorption, and plant defense mechanisms.
Espalier
The practice of training a tree or shrub to grow in a flat, two-dimensional shape, often along a trellis or wire frame, for ornamental or space-saving purposes.
Estuarine
Estuaries are coastal areas where freshwater from rivers and streams mixes with seawater. These transitional environments are characterized by a unique mix of freshwater and saltwater, creating a diverse and productive ecosystem that supports a variety of plant and animal life.
Estuary
A partially enclosed coastal body of water where freshwater from rivers and streams mixes with saltwater from the ocean, creating a unique and productive ecosystem.
Etheostoma
Darters are small, often brightly colored fish that inhabit clear, fast-flowing streams and rivers, where they use their streamlined bodies to dart between rocks and crevices to feed on invertebrates.
Eucalyptus
A genus of evergreen trees and shrubs native to Australia, known for their distinctive, aromatic leaves and their ability to grow rapidly in diverse environments. Eucalyptus trees are valued for their versatile wood, essential oils, and their role in supporting unique ecosystems.
Euglena
A genus of single-celled, flagellated protists that exhibit characteristics of both plants and animals, often used in biology education and research.
Eupatorium
A genus of flowering plants, commonly known as thoroughworts or joe-pye weeds, found in North America and used in traditional medicine and landscaping.
Eutrophic
Eutrophic waterbodies, such as some lakes and ponds, have an abundance of nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus, which leads to excessive growth of primary producers, such as algae and aquatic plants. This can result in decreased dissolved oxygen levels and the degradation of water quality.
Eutrophication
Eutrophication is the process by which a body of water, such as a lake or river, becomes overly enriched with nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus. This can lead to excessive algal growth, which can deplete the dissolved oxygen in the water and harm aquatic life.
Evapotranspiration
The combined process of water evaporation from the soil and transpiration from the leaves of plants, which plays a crucial role in the water cycle and plant water balance.
Evening Primrose
A flowering plant with large, showy yellow flowers that open in the evening and close during the day. Evening primroses are known for their medicinal and culinary uses, as well as their importance as a food source for various wildlife.
Everglade
The Florida Everglades is the largest tropical wilderness in the United States, home to a unique assemblage of plants and animals adapted to the region’s warm, humid climate and seasonally fluctuating water levels.
Evergreen
A plant that retains its leaves or needles throughout the year, rather than shedding them seasonally. Evergreen plants, such as pine trees, holly, and rhododendrons, provide year-round greenery and shelter for many species of animals.
Exoskeleton
The hard, external structure that supports and protects the bodies of many invertebrate animals, such as insects, crustaceans, and arachnids. Exoskeletons serve a variety of functions, including locomotion, defense, and the attachment of muscles.
Exudates
Plant exudates are substances, such as gums, resins, and latexes, that are released from various plant tissues, often in response to injury or environmental stress. These exudates can serve a variety of functions, including defense against herbivores and pathogens, water retention, and nutrient cycling.
Eyespots
A pattern of concentric circles or spots that resemble eyes, found on the wings or bodies of some animals, such as butterflies and fish. Eyespots are believed to serve as a defense mechanism, deterring predators by creating the illusion of a larger, more intimidating animal.

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