Dark-coloured moths survived better in industrial areas because they were less visible on soot-darkened surfaces. Which principle does this support?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: Natural selection
This is the classic industrial melanism example. The moth population already showed colour variation, and soot-darkened surroundings changed which colour provided better camouflage. Dark moths were less visible to predators, survived more often and reproduced more successfully. Their frequency therefore increased through natural selection. Option B is correct; artificial selection requires deliberate human choice, while test crosses and self-pollination are breeding concepts unrelated to this survival pattern.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
Natural selection
Why is this the correct answer?
This is the classic industrial melanism example. The moth population already showed colour variation, and soot-darkened surroundings changed which colour provided better camouflage. Dark moths were less visible to predators, survived more often and reproduced more successfully. Their frequency therefore increased through natural selection. Option B is correct; artificial selection requires deliberate human choice, while test crosses and self-pollination are breeding concepts unrelated to this survival pattern.
Which subject and chapter does this question cover?
This is a Class 10 Science question. Chapter: World of Living. Topic: Heredity and Evolution.
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