What does the term biodiversity encompass?

The term biodiversity refers to the variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem, encompassing not only the number of species present but also the genetic diversity within those species and the ecological processes that sustain them. It includes the overall complexity of biological interactions within an ecosystem, which plays a crucial role in the resilience and functionality of ecological systems.

This broader definition recognizes that biodiversity includes not only species richness—the sheer number of different species—but also the abundance and distribution of these species, as well as the genetic variations among individuals within those species. It illustrates how these factors contribute to a healthy ecosystem by supporting processes such as pollination, nutrient cycling, and climate regulation.

In contrast, focusing solely on the number of species in a region ignores the essential aspects of ecosystem function and the interdependence of species, while emphasizing only genetic diversity within a single species overlooks the larger picture of ecosystem interactions. Additionally, considering just the overall health of a population does not give a comprehensive view of the complex web of interactions and relationships that define biodiversity. Therefore, the richness and variety of life forms and their interactions in an ecosystem make the chosen answer the most accurate representation of what biodiversity encompasses.