Question

(ii) In England after industrialisation, the population of dark-winged moths were more favoured than white-winged moths. Explain.

Hint:

Camouflage increases an organism's chances of survival in changing environments.

Answer 1

Industrialization in England caused significant changes in the environment: \begin{itemize} \item Pre-industrialization: Tree barks were light-colored, allowing white-winged moths to blend in and avoid predators. \item Post-industrialization: Pollution darkened tree barks with soot, making white-winged moths more visible and vulnerable to predation. \item Survival of Dark-Winged Moths: Dark-winged moths became better camouflaged, leading to higher survival and reproduction rates. \end{itemize} This phenomenon, called Industrial Melanism, is a classic example of directional selection where environmental changes shift population traits. % Quick tip