Historically, marine biologists assumed that octopuses were strictly solitary creatures that lacked complex social structures or cooperative behaviors. However, a series of underwater observations in Jervis Bay, Australia, challenged this long-held view. Researchers discovered a site nicknamed 'Octopolis,' where up to fifteen gloomy octopuses (Octopus tetricus) were observed interacting regularly. Rather than dispersing, these individuals gathered in close proximity, utilizing a patch of discarded human metal objects and natural shell beds to build dens. The researchers documented specific social signaling behaviors, such as body color changes and posturing, which the octopuses used to negotiate territorial boundaries and prevent physical conflict. Furthermore, the octopuses displayed instances of defense cooperation, where neighboring individuals jointly deterred predators like small sharks. This high density of dens and the structured interactions observed at Octopolis suggest that habitat constraints and resource abundance can drive the emergence of sociality in species previously deemed entirely solitary.
According to the passage, which of the following observations serves as direct evidence supporting the researchers' claim that the octopuses at Octopolis engaged in cooperative behavior?
- Neighboring octopuses worked together to drive away predators such as small sharks.Answer
- BUp to fifteen gloomy octopuses gathered in close proximity to build their dens.
- CThe octopuses resolved territorial disputes by engaging in physical combat inside their dens.
- DThe site was named 'Octopolis' due to the artificial metal objects the octopuses used.