What inquiry method is concerned with examining similarities and differences between species?

The comparative method focuses on examining similarities and differences between species to understand evolutionary relationships, behavior, and adaptations. This method allows researchers to analyze traits across various species to identify patterns that can reveal insights into evolutionary processes, ecological interactions, and behavioral adaptations. By comparing different species, scientists can discern whether certain traits are adaptations to specific environments or if they are simply a result of common ancestry. This method is fundamental in fields like evolutionary biology and behavioral ecology, where understanding how species relate to one another can inform our knowledge of their behaviors and ecological strategies.