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1. The definition of the word “ecology” is considered and the difficulties — both practical and theoretical — associated with a precise formulation outlined. 2. Ecology as the study of systems consisting of components, or variables, each made up of a number of vectors is discussed. 3. A comparison of the difficulties inherent in the definition with those — less apparent — in abiotic systems is made. 4. The meaning of the word “experimental” is considered and its relation to a series of transformations on a biological system discussed. 5. The meaning — in the restricted sense determined by the definitions given — of experimental ecology and the practical problems it poses are dealt with in some detail. 6. The meaning of “experimental biology” and its relation to experimental ecology, as defined above, is discussed in relation to plant and animal systems. 7. The future of ecology — experimental and otherwise is discussed. 8. The increase in information will call for a greater integrative approach and the possible ways by which this can be achieved are outlined, particularly as they relate to the marine biological sciences.

1. It is shown that the extraction by 5% trichloracetic acid of glycogen from the tissues of some typical marine invertebrates(Balanus balanoides, Nephtys hombergi, Carcinus maenas, Mytilus edulis) is a function of the homogenization procedure. 2. In agreement with work on rat tissues, glycogen fractions cannot be differentiated by their solubility in cold 5% trichloracetic acid. Total glycogen only need be determined.