Industrial melanism was highlighted in:a)Triticum aestivumb)Biston Bet...
(Industrial melanism in Biston betularia involves complex historical and geographical changes in habitat and ecology (Kettlewell, 1973; Berry, 1990; Majerus, 1998). The original phenotype was speckled black and white (typical).
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Industrial melanism was highlighted in:a)Triticum aestivumb)Biston Bet...
The correct answer is option B, Biston Betularia.
Explanation:
Industrial melanism refers to the phenomenon where the frequency of dark-colored individuals in a population increases due to environmental pollution. The classic example of industrial melanism is the peppered moth, Biston betularia, in England.
Here's how industrial melanism was highlighted in Biston Betularia:
Background:
Before the Industrial Revolution, the majority of Biston Betularia moths in England were light-colored with speckled wings, which provided excellent camouflage against the light-colored lichen-covered trees where they rested during the day. However, during the Industrial Revolution, the air became polluted, and the trees became darkened with soot and smoke. This change in the environment gave an advantage to dark-colored moths, which were better camouflaged on the darkened trees.
Observations:
- In the early 19th century, only 2% of the Biston Betularia moth population had the dark form.
- By the late 19th century, the dark form of the moth had become much more common, accounting for almost all of the moths in heavily industrialized areas.
- In the mid-20th century, after environmental regulations had reduced pollution levels, the light form of the moth reappeared and became more common again.
Conclusion:
The rise and fall of the dark form of Biston Betularia moths in response to environmental pollution provided a classic example of natural selection in action. It showed how human activities can have a significant impact on the evolution of species, and how species can adapt to changing environments over relatively short periods of time.
Industrial melanism was highlighted in:a)Triticum aestivumb)Biston Bet...
Biston betularia
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