What is meant by “cooperative behavior” in social species?

Cooperative behavior in social species refers to joint actions that enhance the survival and success of the group. This concept emphasizes the idea that individuals within a social group work together towards common goals, which can include foraging for food, defending against predators, caring for young, and other activities that contribute to the well-being of the group as a whole.

Cooperation often leads to increased efficiency and effectiveness in these tasks, allowing groups to thrive in their environments. It can improve survival rates, increase reproductive success, and foster stronger social bonds, which are essential in species that rely on each other for various aspects of life.

In contrast, actions that do not enhance the group's survival or goals would not constitute cooperative behavior and instead may reflect self-serving or competitive behaviors, which focus solely on individual gain without regard for the group's needs. Thus, B is the most appropriate description of cooperative behavior in social species.