What does the term 'biodiversity' refer to?

The term 'biodiversity' specifically refers to the variety of life forms, including the different species of plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms, as well as the genetic diversity within these species and the ecosystems they inhabit. It encompasses the complex interactions among species in a particular habitat or ecosystem and is essential for maintaining ecological balance and resilience.

Biodiversity is critical for ecosystem function, providing essential services such as pollination, nutrient cycling, and regulation of climate. Each species plays a unique role in its ecosystem, contributing to its overall health and productivity. Areas with high biodiversity tend to be more stable and can better withstand environmental changes.

The other options address related concepts but do not capture the full essence of biodiversity. The study of living organisms is more general and does not specifically focus on the variety within ecosystems. The relationship between organisms and their environment is an important aspect of ecology but does not solely define biodiversity. The process of natural selection, while a mechanism driving evolution and affecting species diversity, is not synonymous with biodiversity itself.