Which term is often associated with the diversity of species within an ecosystem?

The term that is often associated with the diversity of species within an ecosystem is fauna. Fauna refers specifically to the animal life of a particular region, habitat, or geological period. The diversity of fauna within an ecosystem contributes significantly to its overall biodiversity, reflecting the variety of animal species present. This diversity affects ecosystem structure and function, including food webs, nutrient cycling, and ecological interactions.

In ecological discussions, while flora—referring to plant life—is also important, the question specifically highlights the diversity of species, which encompasses animals as well. Conservation pertains to efforts to preserve biodiversity, succession relates to the process of change in the species structure of an ecological community over time, and both flora and fauna collectively contribute to biodiversity but do not specifically focus on the diversity of species as fauna does.