How does industrial melanism support Darwin’s theory of N atural Selection? Explain.

Explanation

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Introduction to Industrial Melanism**: Industrial melanism refers to the phenomenon where darker-colored individuals of a species become more common in industrial areas due to pollution. This concept is particularly illustrated through the case of the peppered moth (Biston betularia) and its darker variant (Biston carbonaria).

2. **Pre-Industrial Environment**: Before the onset of industrialization in the 19th century, the environment was relatively clean, and tree barks were covered with light-colored lichens. In this environment, the white moths (Biston betularia) had a survival advantage because they could easily camouflage against the light-colored tree bark, making it difficult for predators, such as birds, to spot them.

3. **Impact of Industrialization**: With the rise of industrialization, pollution increased, particularly the emission of sulfur dioxide, which led to the death of lichens on tree barks. As a result, the tree bark became darker due to soot and pollution, creating a new environment where the white moths were now more visible to predators.

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