Differences in characteristics that exist among individuals of the same species is referred to as

Differences in characteristics that exist among individuals of the same species is referred to as variation. This means that individuals of the same species can have different traits or features, such as height, weight, color, or behavior. Variation can be influenced by genetic factors, environmental factors, or a combination of both. The presence of variation is important for the process of natural selection, which allows individuals with advantageous traits to survive and reproduce, while individuals with less advantageous traits are less likely to survive and pass on their genes to the next generation.