Step 1: Concept
Bioaccumulation, bioconcentration, and biomagnification.
Step 2: Meaning
These terms describe different aspects of contaminant accumulation in organisms.
Step 3: Analysis
Bioaccumulation (C): Uptake and retention of a contaminant via multiple routes (water, food, air), dependent on intake and elimination rates --- exactly matches the definition given.
Bioconcentration (B): Uptake specifically from water only.
Biomagnification (A): Increasing concentration at successive trophic levels.
Bioconcentration factor (D): A ratio, not a process.
Step 4: Conclusion
Bioaccumulation best fits the given definition.
Final Answer: (C)