The term for a group of organisms of the same species living in the same area is a "population." Populations are crucial units of study in ecology, as they help scientists understand the dynamics of species interactions, reproduction, and survival within specific environments. Within a population, individuals share genetic similarities, interact with each other for mating, and compete for resources such as food and space. Factors influencing population dynamics include birth and death rates, immigration, and emigration, which can affect population size and distribution over time. Understanding populations is fundamental for managing biodiversity and conservation efforts.