National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Environmental Practice Exam

Limnology is the scientific study of inland aquatic systems, primarily focusing on freshwater bodies such as lakes, ponds, and reservoirs. It encompasses various aspects, including the physical, chemical, biological, and ecological characteristics of these water bodies.

Option B is correct because it specifically identifies the ecology of lakes, which is a central component of limnology. This field investigates the dynamics within lake environments, including the relationships between organisms, the effects of surrounding landscapes, and the influence of human activities on these ecosystems.

In contrast, other options refer to different areas of ecological study. The ecology of rivers and streams falls under the category of riverine studies, which is not the primary focus of limnology. The impact of pollution on wetlands, while relevant to aquatic ecosystems, is a more specific aspect of environmental science that pertains more broadly to hydrology and pollution ecology. Lastly, the study of terrestrial ecosystems and their interactions is distinct from limnological studies, as it involves the examination of land-based ecosystems rather than aquatic ones.