The study of geographical areas, and the distribution of plants and animals, is called ?

Chorology is a branch of biogeography that focuses on the study of geographical areas and the distribution patterns of plants and animals. The term originates from the Greek word “chōra”, meaning place or region. Chorology helps scientists understand how living organisms are spread over different regions and what environmental factors influence their distribution.

The main goal of chorology is to determine why specific species exist in certain regions and are absent in others. It examines various environmental and ecological factors such as climate, soil type, altitude, water availability, and human activity, all of which play an important role in shaping the biodiversity of an area. For example, desert regions are dominated by drought-resistant plants like cacti, while tropical rainforests have a dense diversity of species due to their warm and humid climate.

Let’s look at the given options:

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  A) Cosmetology — This refers to the study and application of beauty treatments, not biological or environmental studies.

  
  


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  B) Chorology — ✅ Correct answer. It is the study of the spatial distribution of plants and animals.

  
  


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  C) Osteology — This is the study of bones and skeletal structures.

  
  


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  D) Mycology — This branch of biology deals with the study of fungi, including molds, yeasts, and mushrooms.

  
  

Chorology plays a vital role in ecology, conservation biology, and environmental management. It helps scientists predict how species might shift their habitats due to climate change, deforestation, or pollution. Understanding these patterns allows for better conservation planning and protection of endangered species.

In modern biology, chorology often combines geographical mapping, remote sensing, and data modeling to analyze biodiversity distribution. This knowledge supports efforts in ecosystem preservation, wildlife management, and environmental sustainability.

✅ Correct Answer: B) Chorology