Which term refers specifically to the role and position a species has in its environment?

The term that specifically refers to the role and position a species has in its environment is "niche." A niche encompasses several factors, including how a species interacts with other organisms, the resources it requires for survival, and its contributions to the ecosystem, such as providing food or habitat for other species. It describes not only where an organism lives but more importantly, how it lives—its behaviors, interactions, and adaptations that allow it to thrive within its ecosystem.

In contrast, "habitat" pertains to the physical environment where a species resides but does not include the functional role the species plays. "Ecosystem" represents a broader concept that includes all living organisms and their physical surroundings, while "biosphere" encompasses all ecosystems on Earth. Understanding the distinction between these terms is essential for grasping ecological principles and the complex relationships within environments.