Explain the experience Ted changes to the moth population in the 19th century in terms of natural selection

1 answer

Ted's changes to the moth population in the 19th century can be understood in the context of natural selection. In this scenario, Ted introduces a selective pressure by significantly reducing the number of white moths in the population through hunting. As a result, the frequency of white moths in the population decreases, while the frequency of dark moths increases.

This change in the moth population can be explained by natural selection, as the dark moths are better adapted to survive and reproduce in the new environment created by Ted's actions. The dark coloration of the moths provides them with better camouflage against predators in the altered environment. As a result, the dark moths have a higher chance of surviving and passing on their genes to the next generation, leading to an increase in their frequency in the population.

Overall, this example demonstrates how natural selection can lead to changes in a population over time in response to environmental pressures. The increased frequency of dark moths in the population is a result of their advantageous traits and ability to better survive and reproduce in the new environment created by Ted.