Diversity research frequently looks to the behavior of ants and bees because of their ability to operate successfully within groups. Both of these groups must work within their social structure to accomplish common tasks. In each environment, competition does not exist. Though scientists are unsure of how their behavior evolved, they have identified cooperation and diversity as the keys to their success.
For instance, as an ant hunts for food, it leaves a chemical trail. When it finds food, the entire ant group is able to follow the trail to the food easily. Occasionally, an ant will break from the group to randomly hunt for new ways to the food. Introducing a different perspective to the group allows for the continual improvement of their ability to find food.
Such examples of cooperation and diversity can be found throughout many social structures in nature. They offer useful information in identifying mechanisms for successful group performance.
