The term for the natural world of plants and animals is "biodiversity." Biodiversity encompasses the variety of life forms on Earth, from the smallest microorganisms to the largest mammals, and includes their genetic variation, species diversity, and the ecosystems they inhabit. It plays a crucial role in maintaining ecosystem health and resilience, providing essential services such as pollination, nutrient cycling, and climate regulation. Protecting biodiversity is vital for sustaining ecosystems and the well-being of future generations.