What defines a population in ecological terms?

A population in ecological terms is defined as individuals of the same species living together in a specific area. This definition emphasizes the importance of both species identity and spatial proximity, as the organisms share the same environment and often interact with one another, influencing various ecological processes such as reproduction, resource competition, and social behavior.

In contrast, a collection of different species living together pertains more to the concept of a community, not a population. The overall group of living organisms in the biosphere encompasses a much broader perspective and includes all ecosystems and their interactions, which goes beyond the definition of a population. Lastly, focusing on the total number of organisms in a community captures only a quantitative aspect without addressing the key criteria of species and spatial arrangement, which are essential for defining a population.