What does the term flora refer to?

The term flora specifically refers to the variety and distribution of plant life within a particular region or environment. It encompasses all types of plants, including trees, shrubs, grasses, and flowering plants, and is often used to describe the plant species native to or characteristic of a specific area. Understanding flora is essential in geography and ecology, as it helps in assessing biodiversity, ecological health, and the interactions between plants and their environment. This term is distinct and should not be confused with fauna, which pertains to animal life. The other options address different aspects of ecosystems or environmental health, but they do not encapsulate the meaning of flora.