Embark on an enlightening journey with the Natural Selection in Peppered Moths Webquest Answer Key. This comprehensive resource delves into the captivating tale of how natural selection shaped the evolution of these remarkable creatures, offering a profound understanding of its fundamental principles and far-reaching implications.
As the Industrial Revolution cast its shadow upon the world, peppered moths found themselves at the crossroads of adaptation. The changing landscape posed unprecedented challenges, and only those with the genetic advantage to camouflage amidst the darkened environment could thrive.
This webquest answer key unravels the intricate tapestry of natural selection, revealing the fascinating interplay between genetics, environmental pressures, and the relentless drive for survival.
1. Introduction: Natural Selection In Peppered Moths Webquest Answer Key
Natural selection is a fundamental mechanism in evolution, driving the adaptation of species to their environments. It describes the process by which individuals with traits that are better suited to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing on their advantageous traits to their offspring.
This gradual accumulation of favorable traits over generations leads to the evolution of populations.
Industrial melanism is a classic example of natural selection in action. In the case of peppered moths, it refers to the evolution of dark-colored moths in polluted areas during the Industrial Revolution.
2. Historical Context
Pre-industrial environment: Prior to the Industrial Revolution, peppered moths were primarily light-colored, which provided camouflage against the light-colored trees and lichens in their natural habitat.
Industrial Revolution: The Industrial Revolution brought significant environmental changes, including the release of pollutants into the atmosphere. This pollution darkened tree trunks and lichens, creating a selective advantage for dark-colored moths.
3. Natural Selection in Action
Favorable traits: In polluted areas, dark-colored moths were less visible to predators, such as birds, against the darkened trees. This gave them a survival advantage over light-colored moths.
Genetic basis: The coloration of peppered moths is controlled by a single gene with two alleles, one for light coloration and one for dark coloration. The dark allele became more prevalent in polluted areas due to natural selection.
4. Evidence and Observations
Population changes: Studies conducted over several decades showed that the frequency of dark-colored moths increased in polluted areas, while the frequency of light-colored moths decreased.
Scientific confirmation: Controlled experiments, such as those conducted by Bernard Kettlewell, provided strong evidence for the role of natural selection in the evolution of peppered moths.
5. Adaptations and Consequences
Adaptation to changing environment: The evolution of dark-colored moths in polluted areas is a clear example of how natural selection can drive adaptation to changing environmental conditions.
Implications for other species and ecosystems: Natural selection has implications for the evolution of other species and ecosystems, as it drives the survival and reproduction of individuals with advantageous traits, leading to the diversification and adaptation of life on Earth.
Expert Answers
What is natural selection?
Natural selection is a fundamental mechanism of evolution that favors individuals with traits that enhance their survival and reproductive success in a particular environment.
How did natural selection affect peppered moths during the Industrial Revolution?
In polluted areas, dark-colored peppered moths had a survival advantage over light-colored moths, as they could better camouflage against the soot-darkened trees.
What is industrial melanism?
Industrial melanism is a phenomenon where a species develops darker coloration in response to increased pollution, providing a camouflage advantage.
What is the genetic basis of peppered moth coloration?
Peppered moth coloration is controlled by a single gene with two alleles, one for dark coloration and one for light coloration.
How did scientific studies confirm the theory of natural selection in peppered moths?
Field studies and breeding experiments provided strong evidence supporting the role of natural selection in the evolution of peppered moth coloration.
