Industrial melanism is an example of:a)Drug resistanceb)Darkening of s...
Industrial melanism is an adaptation where the moths living in the industrial areas develop melanin pigments to match their body to the soot covered surroundings.
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Industrial melanism is an example of:a)Drug resistanceb)Darkening of s...
in pepper moth industrial melanism occurs after pollution more black moth found
Industrial melanism is an example of:a)Drug resistanceb)Darkening of s...
Industrial melanism is a phenomenon where the coloration of certain organisms becomes darker in response to environmental changes caused by industrial pollution. This adaptation is observed in several species, including moths and certain types of butterflies, and it is considered an example of protective resemblance with the surrounding environment.
Explanation:
The process of industrial melanism can be explained in the following steps:
1. Pre-industrial environment:
In a pre-industrial environment, organisms with lighter coloration are more common because they are better camouflaged against their natural surroundings. This lighter coloration provides a selective advantage by helping them blend in with their environment and avoid predation.
2. Industrial pollution:
When industrial pollution occurs, it often leads to the release of pollutants, such as soot and smoke, into the environment. These pollutants can darken the surroundings, making lighter-colored organisms more conspicuous to predators.
3. Natural selection:
As the environment becomes darker due to industrial pollution, organisms with darker coloration have a higher chance of survival. Darker individuals are better camouflaged against the polluted environment, making it harder for predators to spot them. This gives them a selective advantage and increases their chances of surviving and reproducing.
4. Increase in frequency of dark individuals:
Over time, the frequency of individuals with darker coloration increases in the population. This is because these individuals have a higher chance of surviving and passing on their genes to the next generation. As a result, the overall coloration of the population becomes darker, which is known as industrial melanism.
5. Reversal of industrial melanism:
In some cases, when pollution levels decrease or environmental conditions change, the selective advantage of dark coloration may diminish. Lighter-colored individuals may once again become favored, and the population's coloration can revert to its pre-industrial state.
Therefore, industrial melanism is an example of protective resemblance with the surrounding environment. It demonstrates how organisms can adapt their coloration in response to changes in their environment to increase their chances of survival and reproductive success.
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