An interesting observation supporting evolution by natural selection comes from England. In a collection of moths made in the 1850s (before industrialization) . Which of the following were true at that time ?
P - Pollution was very less.
Q - Thick growth of almost white - colored lichen covered the moths.
R - Dark coloured moths were picked out by predators.

Options

A. P only
B. P,Q and R
C. Q and R
D. P and R

Answer

To solve the question regarding the observations supporting evolution by natural selection in England during the 1850s, we will analyze each statement (P, Q, R) one by one.

### Step 1: Analyze Statement P
**Statement P:** Pollution was very less.

- In the 1850s, before industrialization, England experienced minimal pollution. This means that the environment was relatively clean, and the natural colors of the surroundings, including tree trunks and lichen, were preserved. Therefore, this statement is **true**.

### Step 2: Analyze Statement Q
**Statement Q:** Thick growth of almost white-colored lichen covered the moths.

- During this period, the lichen on tree trunks was predominantly light-colored (almost white). However, the statement suggests that the lichen covered the moths, which is misleading. The lichen provided a background that allowed lighter-colored moths to camouflage effectively. Thus, while there was white lichen, the phrasing of the statement implies that it covered the moths, which is not accurate. Therefore, this statement is **false**.

### Step 3: Analyze Statement R
**Statement R:** Dark colored moths were picked out by predators.

- Given that the tree trunks were not black due to pollution, dark-colored moths would stand out against the lighter background. This would make them more visible to predators, leading to a higher predation rate for these moths. Thus, this statement is **true**.

### Conclusion
Based on the analysis:
- Statement P is true.
- Statement Q is false.
- Statement R is true.

The correct answer to the question is that statements P and R are true while statement Q is false.

### Final Answer
The true statements are P and R.

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