Which statement best describes a behavioral adaptation?

• A. An action or behavior that helps an organism survive
• B. A body part used for defense
• C. A biochemical process changing metabolism
• D. A genetic mutation with no effect

Answer: (A)

Behavioral adaptations are actions or behaviors that help an organism survive in its environment. The statement describes an action or behavior that improves survival, which is exactly what a behavioral adaptation is. For example, animals migrating to access food or shelter, or prey avoiding predators by changing when they are active, illustrate how behavior enhances survival.

This best fits because it focuses on the organism’s actions as a way to cope with surroundings. In contrast, a body part used for defense is a structural adaptation—it's a physical feature like a shell or spines. A biochemical process changing metabolism is a physiological adaptation, related to how the body functions. A genetic mutation with no effect isn’t an adaptation at all, since it doesn’t enhance survival or reproduction.