Grassland ecology refers to the study of the natural systems that exist within grassy plains and meadowlands. There are a variety of synonyms for this discipline, including prairie ecology, savannah ecology, and steppe ecology. These terms all describe ecological systems that are dominated by grasses and other herbaceous plants, and are often found in regions with a semi-arid climate. Grassland ecosystems are known for their unique biodiversity, with a wide variety of mammals, birds, and insects coexisting within the same habitat. The study of grassland ecology is important for understanding how natural systems function and how they are impacted by human activities such as land-use change and climate change.