What do you call the area consisting of living organisms interacting with their environment?

The area that consists of living organisms interacting with their environment is called an ecosystem. An ecosystem encompasses not just the organisms themselves—plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms—but also includes the physical environment they inhabit, such as soil, water, and air. This dynamic interaction between biotic (living) and abiotic (non-living) components creates a complex system where energy flows and nutrients cycle, supporting various life forms.

In contrast, a community refers specifically to the group of different species living together in a particular area, while a population is focused on individuals of the same species in a given environment. A niche describes the role or function an organism has in its ecosystem, including its habitat, resource use, and interactions with other organisms. Therefore, ecosystem is the most comprehensive term that captures the interconnectedness of living organisms and their physical surroundings.