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

question 8

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-nineteenth century, a dark-colored form appeared. The difference is produced by a dominant allele of one gene. The dark- and light-colored forms readily interbreed with each other. By about 1900, approximately 90 percent 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, because natural selection has affected the frequency of the two different forms.
• B) Yes, because they have completely different coloration.
• C) Yes, because they are reproductively isolated based on habitat.
• D) Yes, because they have completely different coloration and natural selection has affected the frequency of the two different forms.
• E) No.

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Definitions:

Commercialization

The process of introducing a new product or production method into the market, turning inventions into commercial products.

Full-Scale Production

The phase in which a product is manufactured at its highest capacity, often after successful prototypes and pilot runs, to meet the demand in the market.

New-Product Development

The process of bringing a new product to the marketplace, from idea generation to commercialization.

Commercialization

The process of bringing a new product or service to the market, involving production, distribution, marketing, and sales strategies.