Which term describes the progression of stages in the development of an organism?

The term that describes the progression of stages in the development of an organism is the life cycle. A life cycle encompasses all the stages an organism goes through from the beginning of its life until its reproduction and eventual death. This concept applies to various species and is crucial in understanding biological and ecological processes. It highlights how organisms grow, develop, reproduce, and what changes they undergo during their lifespan.

Metabolism refers to the biochemical processes that occur within a living organism to maintain life, but it does not specifically address the stages of development. Habitat pertains to the environment in which an organism lives, including the conditions and resources it requires for survival. The nutrient cycle refers to the flow of nutrients through an ecosystem, emphasizing how different elements circulate among organisms and the environment, rather than individual developmental stages of a single organism. Thus, life cycle is the best choice, as it specifically focuses on the sequential stages of an organism’s life.