What term describes an organism that has developed and occurs naturally in the area where it is found?

The term that describes an organism that has developed and occurs naturally in the area where it is found is "native species." Native species are plants, animals, and other organisms that have evolved within an ecosystem and have adapted to the specific environmental conditions of that region over time. They contribute to the local biodiversity and are integral parts of their ecosystems, providing habitats, food sources, and ecological balance.

In contrast to native species, invasive species refer to organisms that are introduced, either intentionally or accidentally, to a new environment where they do not naturally occur. These species can disrupt local ecosystems and outcompete native species.

Endemic species are a specific subset of native species that are found only in a particular geographic area and nowhere else in the world. While all endemic species are native to a region, not all native species are endemic.

Exotic species are also organisms that are introduced to a region outside their natural range, much like invasive species. However, exotic species do not necessarily have negative impacts on the local ecology.

Understanding the definitions and implications of these terms helps in the management and conservation of ecosystems, particularly in aquatic environments where the balance between native and non-native species is crucial.