What does diversity signify in a biological context?

Diversity in a biological context primarily refers to the variety of genetic traits within a species. This genetic variation is fundamental for the survival and adaptability of a species in changing environments. It plays a critical role in determining how populations respond to environmental stressors, diseases, and changes in habitat. Greater genetic diversity within a species can lead to enhanced resilience, allowing for better survival rates and reproductive success under adverse conditions.

In this context, the other options focus on different aspects of biological diversity. While the range of different habitats in an ecosystem and the number of species in a given area are important components of biodiversity as a whole, they do not specifically address the genetic variation within a single species. Similarly, health indicators of an ecosystem can provide insight into ecosystem functionality but do not measure genetic diversity within a species. Therefore, the variety of genetic traits within a species is the most accurate representation of diversity in this context.