Summary
A classic example of directional selection in which dark moths became common in polluted industrial Britain.
In depth
Before the Industrial Revolution, light moths (Biston betularia) were camouflaged on lichen-covered trees. As soot darkened trees in industrial areas the dark (carbonaria) form rose from rare to over 90 percent by 1895. After clean air laws it fell again. Kettlewell's experiments and later work supported predation by birds as the cause.
The case shows selection can occur within a few decades.
Frequently asked questions
What is Peppered Moth?
A classic example of directional selection in which dark moths became common in polluted industrial Britain.
Which area of biology covers Peppered Moth, and how advanced is it?
Peppered Moth is one of the 53 topics in Evolution. It is rated Beginner, so it suits learners who are starting out in biology. Related topics in this area include Natural Selection, Allopatric Speciation, Charles Darwin.
Can you give an example of Peppered Moth?
The dark allele arises from a transposon insertion near the cortex gene.
What should I learn before Peppered Moth?
Peppered Moth is a Beginner topic, so no earlier topic is required. Other Beginner topics in Evolution that pair well with it include Evolution, Natural Selection, Charles Darwin.
What topics are related to Peppered Moth?
The closest topics to Peppered Moth are Natural Selection, Allopatric Speciation, Charles Darwin, Artificial Selection. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Peppered Moth?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Peppered Moth. To practise the whole of Evolution, use the Evolution quiz.
How is Peppered Moth different from Natural Selection?
Peppered Moth: A classic example of directional selection in which dark moths became common in polluted industrial Britain. Natural Selection: Individuals with traits better suited to their environment survive and reproduce more, passing those traits on. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Peppered Moth step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Natural Selection and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Evolution quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.