What does the term “biodiversity” refer to?

The term "biodiversity" refers to the variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem. This encompasses not only the number of different species present but also the genetic diversity within those species and the complex relationships between them. Biodiversity is crucial because it contributes to ecosystem resilience, allowing habitats to withstand environmental changes and disruptions. A rich diversity of species can enhance productivity and provide a broader range of ecosystem services, such as pollination, water purification, and nutrient cycling.

Other options, while related to the concept of biodiversity, highlight specific aspects of it. The ability of an ecosystem to adapt to change touches on resilience but does not capture the range of species and genetic diversity encompassed by biodiversity itself. The total number of species in a given area is a part of understanding biodiversity but does not reflect the variety of life forms and their interactions. Lastly, the distribution of species across the planet does provide insight into global biodiversity patterns, but it does not fully define what biodiversity means at the local or ecosystem level.