Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Biodiversity refers to the variety of living organisms found in a given area or on Earth. It encompasses the diversity of species, genes, and ecosystems.
Related terms
Ecosystem: An ecosystem is a community of living organisms in conjunction with their non-living environment. (e.g., a forest or coral reef)
Species: A species is a group of similar organisms that can interbreed to produce fertile offspring.