Which term refers to the natural habitat or environment of an organism?

The term that refers to the natural habitat or environment of an organism is habitat. A habitat provides the specific conditions necessary for an organism to survive, including elements such as food, water, shelter, and mates for reproduction. This concept emphasizes the location or type of environment where a species can thrive and fulfill its needs.

Understanding habitat is essential in ecology because it highlights the relationship between organisms and their physical environment. For instance, a forest, desert, or freshwater body can all serve as different types of habitats that support various forms of life, each adapted to its unique conditions.

In contrast, while the terms niche, biome, and region are related to ecological concepts, they refer to different aspects. A niche describes the role or function of an organism within its community and includes its interactions with both biotic and abiotic factors. A biome refers to a larger ecological unit characterized by distinct climate conditions and types of plants and animals, such as tundras or tropical forests. A region is a broader geographic area that may encompass multiple habitats and biomes, but does not specifically denote the immediate environment where an individual organism lives.