What is the process called where two different species interbreed?

Hybridization refers to the process in which individuals from two different species come together to reproduce, resulting in offspring that typically possess traits from both parent species. This phenomenon often occurs when the species are closely related, allowing for the possibility of producing viable and fertile hybrids. Hybridization can lead to important evolutionary processes, as it may introduce new genetic variations and combinations that contribute to the adaptability and evolution of species.

In contrast, the other terms do not describe this process. Biodiversity refers to the variety of life and its processes within a specific habitat or ecosystem. Speciation is the process by which one species evolves into two or more distinct species, generally as a result of reproductive isolation and differing evolutionary pressures. Extinction refers to the complete disappearance of a species, rather than the interbreeding between existing species. Therefore, hybridization is the specific term that accurately describes the interbreeding between two different species.