The Peppered Moth Provides a Well-Known Example of Natural Selection

question 1

Multiple Choice

The peppered moth provides a well-known example of natural selection. The light-colored form of the moth was predominant in England before the Industrial Revolution. In the mid-19th century, a dark-colored form appeared. The difference is produced by a dominant allele of one gene. By about 1900, approximately 90% of the moths around industrial areas were dark colored, whereas light-colored moths were still abundant elsewhere. Apparently, birds could readily find the light moths against the soot-darkened background in industrial areas and, therefore, were eating more light moths. Recently, use of cleaner fuels has greatly reduced soot in the landscape, and the dark-colored moths have been disappearing. Should the two forms of moths be considered separate species?

• A) Yes; natural selection has affected the frequency of the two different forms.
• B) Yes; they have completely different coloration.
• C) Yes; they are reproductively isolated based on habitat.
• D) No; they still can interbreed.

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Definitions:

Showrooming

The practice of examining merchandise in a traditional brick and mortar retail store without purchasing it, then shopping online to find a better deal on the same item.

Price Discrimination

A pricing strategy where identical or similar products or services are sold at different prices to different customers.

Price Fixing

An illegal agreement between parties to set prices at a certain level, preventing fair competition and manipulating the market.

Predatory Pricing

A pricing strategy where a business sets very low prices with the intent to drive competitors out of the market or to prevent new entrants from gaining a foothold.