Multiple Choice
Which of the following scenarios is the best example of natural selection?
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1. Introduction to Biology
Natural Selection and Evolution
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Which statement best summarizes what happened to peppered moths in England after the Industrial Revolution?
A
Both dark and light-colored moths were equally common because predators could not distinguish between them.
B
Dark-colored moths became more common because they were better camouflaged against soot-darkened trees.
C
Light-colored moths became more common because they blended in with the clean, lichen-covered trees.
D
The population of peppered moths declined drastically due to increased air pollution.
Verified step by step guidance1
Step 1: Understand the context of the problem. The question refers to the phenomenon of natural selection observed in peppered moths during and after the Industrial Revolution in England. This is a classic example of how environmental changes can influence the survival and reproduction of organisms.
Step 2: Recall the key biological concept. The Industrial Revolution caused significant air pollution, which darkened tree bark with soot. This environmental change affected the visibility of moths to predators, such as birds, depending on their coloration.
Step 3: Analyze the survival advantage. Dark-colored moths were better camouflaged against the soot-darkened trees, making them less likely to be eaten by predators. Light-colored moths, which were previously camouflaged against clean, lichen-covered trees, became more visible and were more likely to be preyed upon.
Step 4: Connect this to natural selection. Over time, the population of dark-colored moths increased because they had a survival advantage in the soot-darkened environment. This is an example of directional selection, where one phenotype becomes more common due to environmental pressures.
Step 5: Evaluate the options provided in the question. Based on the explanation above, the correct answer is: 'Dark-colored moths became more common because they were better camouflaged against soot-darkened trees.'
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