Question

The total population graphs below display the results of two different five-year hunting cycles, one on light trees and one on dark trees. How do these results demonstrate natural selection?

a.
The moth populations shown here demonstrate random fluctuations over time that are not explained by tree color.
b.
The moths that are a different color than the trees in their environment thrive over time due to camouflage, and their populations increase.
c.
The moths that are the same color as the trees in their environment thrive over time due to camouflage, and their populations increase.
d.
The graphs actually show a result that is opposite of what is expected from natural selection.


Please select the best answer from the choices provided

A
B
C
D

Answer 1

B is incorrect, I just too the test and the answer is C

Answer 2

The most appropriate answer would be option c.

Natural selection refers to the natural phenomenon which leads to the evolution through differential reproduction.

Differential reproduction refers to the different rates of reproduction of organisms in a population.

The organisms which are better adapted to the environment or have better traits tend to survive and reproduce more as compared to the other organisms.

Over the generations, the traits become common in the entire population.

For example, having the same color as that of the tree gives the survival advantage to the moth due to camouflage. Consequently, the same color population increases in size while the contrasting color population decreases.