What defines a habitat?

A habitat is defined as the natural environment where a species lives, encompassing all the biotic (living) and abiotic (non-living) factors that affect the organisms living there. This includes the physical space, climate, availability of resources such as water and shelter, and interactions with other organisms within that environment. Each species is adapted to thrive in its specific habitat, which provides everything necessary for its survival, growth, and reproduction.

While factors like genetic makeup, migratory patterns, and food resources can influence the presence and health of a species within its habitat, they do not in themselves define what a habitat is. The critical aspect of a habitat is the overall environment that supports the life of a species, including its physical space and ecological interactions.