What is a fundamental characteristic of all living systems?

A fundamental characteristic of all living systems is the replication of genetic information. This process is essential for the transmission of genetic traits from one generation to the next, ensuring that organisms maintain the continuity of their species. Replication occurs during cell division, allowing cells to produce copies of their DNA, thereby enabling growth, repair, and reproduction.

This characteristic is central to the concept of life because it underpins biological diversity and evolution. Through the replication of genetic material, variations can occur, which can lead to adaptation over time. This adaptability is crucial for survival in changing environments, but it stems from the initial ability to replicate genetic information accurately.

While factors like adaptation to the environment, ability to consume food, and production of waste are essential for the survival and functioning of living organisms, they are not universally applicable to all forms of life. For instance, some organisms do not consume food in the traditional sense (like autotrophs, which make their own food via photosynthesis). Similarly, while waste production is a consequence of metabolic processes, it is not a defining feature of life itself. The replication of genetic information remains a fundamental and universal requirement for all living systems, highlighting its critical role in the essence of life.