Which term refers to the variety of life in the biosphere?

The term that refers to the variety of life in the biosphere is biodiversity. Biodiversity encompasses the range of different species, genetic variations, and ecosystems present within a particular area or on a global scale. It plays a critical role in the health and resilience of ecosystems, contributing to their functionality and the services they provide, such as pollination, disease regulation, and nutrient cycling.

The other terms highlight different aspects of the biological world. A biome refers to a large ecological area on the Earth’s surface, with flora and fauna adapting to their environment. Habitat describes the specific environment in which an organism lives, emphasizing the physical and biological factors affecting that organism's life. Ecology is the scientific study of interactions among organisms and between organisms and their environment. Each of these concepts is essential, but biodiversity specifically captures the complexity and richness of life forms in the biosphere.