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Welcome to the Peppered Moth Quiz, where you can test your knowledge and learn more about one of the most famous examples of evolution in action! This moth is known for its ability to adapt to its environment, known as natural selection. In forested areas where lichens cover tree trunks, the mottled species is dominant but in the city where soot and pollution were more rampant, the black species is prevalent.
Take the quiz to test your knowledge of Peppered Moths if you believe you know everything there is to know about them or if you want to learn more about this evolutionary marvel!
What is the scientific name for the Peppered Moth?
The peppered moth belongs to the genus Biston and is the only species Biston betularia. Although there is only one species of this moth, they can be found in two different color forms: one light (very little black spotting) and the other dark (heavy black spotting). However, there are around seven different subspecies:
This species is not only a famous example of evolution in action but is also an example of population genetics, which, as a part of evolutionary biology, discusses genetic differences within and among populations. It is very rare to see a species change its genetic material of a population over the course of a human lifetime. The adult moth is not the only one to exhibit differences within the species either. The caterpillar mimics the form and color of a twig. Read on to discover more interesting facts.
They have a mutation in their DNA called a carbonaria mutation, which is a “jumping” gene called a transposon that they pass to their offspring.
This moth is a nocturnal butterfly that is out between May and August.
Before 1848, the peppered moth existed mainly in a white-colored form.
By 1898 the dark-colored moth outnumbered the lighter-colored moth.
What is the main method of reproduction for the Peppered Moth?
Melissa Bauernfeind was born in NYC and got her degree in Journalism from Boston University. She lived in San Diego for 10 years and is now back in NYC. She loves adventure and traveling the world with her husband but always misses her favorite little man, "P", half Chihuahua/half Jack Russell, all trouble. She got dive-certified so she could dive with the Great White Sharks someday and is hoping to swim with the Orcas as well.