What is the term for a disease that occurs in several members of a population or colony?

The correct answer is endemic. This term refers to a disease or condition that is consistently present and regularly found within a specific geographic area or population. In the context of laboratory animals, an endemic disease will typically affect a certain percentage of the population over an extended period without resulting in a sudden surge.

Enzootic also relates to diseases found in animal populations but usually refers to a disease that is present continuously, specifically among wildlife populations or domesticated animals in a particular area. Epidemic implies a sudden increase in the number of cases of a disease above what is normally expected, indicating an outbreak. Exotic refers to diseases that are not native to a region and may pose a risk when introduced. Understanding these distinctions is essential for properly assessing and managing animal health in laboratory and research settings.