The characteristics necessary for life

There are 8 common features of all living organisms. All of these characteristics must be present in order for an organism to be deemed living.

1. Organization and complexity (example- the organ system)
2. Composed of cells (can be unicellular or multi-cellular)
3. Homeostasis - maintaining internal constancy, staying within preset boundaries necessary for organism to function 
4. Growth and development - all living things get larger and more complex throughout the organism's life
5. Reproduction
6. Response to stimuli - An organism does something in response to the environment to grow, reproduce, or maintain homeostasis 
7. Energy transformers/converters - Obtained from the external environment for maintenance, growth, reproduction, and homeostasis.
8. Capacity to evolve - Certain aspects of an organism change over time in response to a changing environment.