Biodiversity refers specifically to the variety of life on Earth, encompassing the different species of plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms, as well as the ecosystems they form and the genetic diversity within those species. The term combines "bio," which means life, and "diversity," which indicates variety.
In contrast, non-living things, which may impact biodiversity, are referred to as abiotic factors, such as air, water, temperature, and soil. These abiotic factors play a crucial role in shaping the habitats and ecosystems where biodiversity exists, but they are not considered part of biodiversity itself.