Which one of the following best explains the Industrial melanism

Options

A. defensive adaptation of skin against ultraviolet radiations
B. drug resistance
C. darkening of skin due to smoke from industries
D. protective resemblance with the surroundings

Explanation

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Industrial Melanism**: Industrial melanism is a phenomenon observed in certain species where darker individuals become more common in polluted environments. This is particularly illustrated by the case of the peppered moth (Biston betularia).

2. **Historical Context**: In the 1850s, before industrialization in England, the trees were covered with light-colored lichens. The light background allowed the white (non-melanized) peppered moths to camouflage effectively, thus avoiding predation.

3. **Impact of Industrialization**: By the 1920s, industrialization led to increased pollution, which caused the lichens to die off and the tree bark to become darkened with soot. This change in the environment created a dark background.

4. **Survival of the Fittest**: As a result of the darkened environment, the dark-colored (melanized) moths had a survival advantage because they were now better camouflaged against the dark bark. Conversely, the white moths became more visible to predators, leading to a decline in their population.

5. **Natural Selection**: This shift in population dynamics is an example of natural selection, where the traits that enhance survival and reproduction become more common in the population over time.

6. **Conclusion**: The best explanation for industrial melanism is protective resemblance with the surroundings, as the coloration of the moths directly influenced their survival based on environmental changes.

**Final Answer**: The option that best explains industrial melanism is "protective resemblance with the surroundings."

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