What defines a population in biological terms?

In biological terms, a population is defined as a group of organisms of the same species that occupy a specific geographical area. This concept highlights the importance of both species similarity and spatial distribution. Members of a population are capable of interbreeding and sharing genetic information, which can lead to evolutionary changes over time.

The focus on organisms of the same species is crucial, as it establishes a context for studying various aspects of biology, including population dynamics, ecology, and behavior. Understanding the interactions within a population helps researchers explore how environmental factors influence growth, survival, and reproduction rates. The geographical aspect emphasizes that these organisms are not just a random collection but are interconnected by their shared habitat, which affects their interactions and ecological relationships.

The other options don't align with the definition of a population. A group of different species refers to a community rather than a population. A geographical distribution that includes organisms from different locations does not fulfill the criteria for defining a population, which must be localized to a specific area. Lastly, while interactions with the environment are essential for understanding ecological dynamics, they do not specifically delineate a population's definition in biological terms. Hence, focusing on the same species in a shared space provides the most accurate characterization of a population.