Question
NATURAL SELECTION: Peppered Moths
Explain the expected changes to the molh population in the 19th century in
terms of natural selection.
Answer
The expected changes to the peppered moth population in the 19th century due to natural selection would be an increase in the frequency of the dark-colored moths and a decrease in the frequency of the light-colored moths. This is because the industrial revolution caused pollution, which darkened the trees and made the dark-colored moths more difficult to spot by predators, giving them a survival advantage. As a result, they were more likely to survive and reproduce, passing on their dark coloration to their offspring. Over time, this led to a shift in the population towards darker moths.