What term describes the exchange of plants, animals, and diseases between the Americas and the rest of the world?

The term that best describes the exchange of plants, animals, and diseases between the Americas and the rest of the world is the Columbian Exchange. This term specifically refers to the widespread transfer that occurred after Christopher Columbus's voyages in the late 15th century, which established a link between the New World and the Old World. The Columbian Exchange significantly impacted agriculture, nutrition, and cultures by introducing new crops and livestock across continents and resulted in the transfer of diseases that had devastating effects on indigenous populations in the Americas.

This exchange led to a dramatic reshaping of global populations and ecosystems, making it a significant historical phenomenon. While terms like "Great Exchange" or "Global Exchange" may imply a similar idea, they do not specifically capture the unique historical context of the interaction initiated by Columbus and his subsequent explorers. The term "Transatlantic Exchange" suggests a focus on the Atlantic Ocean, but it lacks the comprehensive scope and historical specificity inherent to the concept of the Columbian Exchange.