Peppered Moths
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Peppered Moths
Two Peppered Moths. Date: 1950s
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 7220365
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10181227
EDITORS COMMENTS
In this black-and-white photograph from the 1950s, two Peppered Moths (Biston betularia) rest on a moss-covered tree branch, their intricately patterned wings creating a stunning contrast against the dark bark. Peppered Moths are native to Europe and are one of the most well-known examples of industrial melanism, a phenomenon where the darker coloration of an organism increases its camouflage in polluted environments. During the Industrial Revolution, the trees in polluted areas were covered in soot, making the lighter-colored Peppered Moths more visible to predators. However, the darker moths, which were originally a rare variant, became better camouflaged and thrived in these areas. This shift in coloration led to a significant increase in the population of the dark morph, a classic example of natural selection in action. The Peppered Moths in this photograph are likely resting after a night of feeding on the sap or nectar of trees. Their wings are closed to conserve energy and protect their delicate bodies from the elements. The intricate patterns on their wings, which are made up of tiny scales, serve multiple purposes. They help to camouflage the moths from predators, as well as play a role in communication and mating. This photograph is a beautiful reminder of the intricacies of the natural world and the fascinating ways in which organisms adapt to their environments. The Peppered Moths' story of industrial melanism is a classic example of how natural selection can lead to significant changes in populations over time.
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