What term is used to describe a group of animals that share common traits and can interbreed to produce fertile offspring?

The term used to describe a group of animals that share common traits and can interbreed to produce fertile offspring is species. In biological classification, a species is defined as a group of organisms that can reproduce with one another in nature and produce viable, fertile offspring. This reproductive capability is a key criterion for species definition, as it emphasizes the interconnectedness and genetic similarity among members of the same species.

The concept of species is fundamental in biology and ecology because it helps scientists categorize and understand the diversity of life. For example, while dogs and wolves belong to the same species (Canis lupus familiaris and Canis lupus), they can interbreed and produce fertile offspring, despite being classified as different subspecies.

In contrast, other terms such as genus, family, and population refer to broader or different classifications. Genus is a taxonomic rank that groups together species that are closely related, while family encompasses multiple genera. A population refers to a group of individuals of the same species living in a specific area at a given time, but it does not convey the same meaning as species regarding the ability to interbreed and produce fertile offspring. Thus, species is the most accurate term in this context.