Habitat Meaning and Definition
Habitat
Pronunciation
/ˈhæbɪtæt/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A natural environment in which an organism, plant, or animal lives out its life cycle, characterized by its biotic and abiotic factors, such as climate, vegetation, and soil composition.
Examples
- The bird built its nest in a tree near its natural habitat.
- The coral reef is a unique habitat for many marine species.
Synonyms
- Environment
- Ecosystem
Antonyms
- Laboratory
- Zoo
Additional Information
A habitat can be a local or global environment, and it plays a crucial role in the survival and evolution of organisms. Understanding habitats is essential for conservation and ecology. Habitat destruction, fragmentation, or degradation can have severe impacts on ecosystems and biodiversity.
Habitats can be aquatic, terrestrial, or subterranean, and they provide specific conditions for organisms to thrive. For example, a coral reef habitat provides a unique environment for fish, invertebrates, and plants to coexist and interact.
Etymology
The word “habitat” comes from the Latin word “habitare,” meaning “to inhabit” or “to dwell.”
Usage Notes
In biology, the term “habitat” is used to describe a specific environment where an organism lives, whereas “ecosystem” refers to the interaction between organisms and their environment.
Cultural References
The concept of habitat has appeared in popular culture, such as in documentaries and educational programs, to raise awareness about environmental issues and conservation efforts.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
None
Related Words or Phrases
- Ecological niche
- Biome
- Species
Collocations
- Wildlife habitat
- Marine habitat
- Forest habitat
Frequency of Use
The word “habitat” is frequently used in scientific and conservation contexts, with a moderate to high frequency of use in daily language.
Common Misspellings
Gerbera, Habitant