genetic ecology is the study of the stability and expression of varying genetic material within abiotic mediums. typically, genetic data is not thought of outside of any organism save for criminal for criminal forensics. however, genetic material has the ability to be taken up by various organisms that exist within an abiotic medium through natural transformations that may occur. thus, this field of study focuses on interaction, exchange, and expression of genetic material that may not be shared by species had they not been in the same environment.