The term 'biomass' refers to the total mass of living organisms in a specific area or ecosystem at a given time. It encompasses all organic matter, including plants, animals, and microorganisms. Biomass is an essential component of ecological studies, as it serves as an indicator of energy flow within ecosystems and can be used to estimate productivity. In a broader context, biomass can also refer to organic materials used for bioenergy, providing a renewable energy source that can help mitigate climate change.