Which of the following can be used as an industrial pollution indicator?

Options

A. Lichens
B. White-winged moths
C. Dark-winged moths
D. Fossils

Answer

**Step-by-Step Text Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Question**: The question asks for an organism that can serve as an indicator of industrial pollution. An indicator species is one that reflects the health of an environment or ecosystem, often showing sensitivity to specific pollutants.

2. **Identifying the Options**: The options provided are lichens, white-winged moths, dark-winged moths, and fossils. We need to evaluate which of these can indicate industrial pollution.

3. **Evaluating Lichens**: Lichens are known to be sensitive to air quality, particularly to sulfur dioxide and other pollutants released from industrial activities. They absorb nutrients from the air and are unable to survive in polluted environments. Therefore, their presence or absence can indicate the level of air pollution.

4. **Evaluating Other Options**:
- **White-winged Moths and Dark-winged Moths**: While these insects may be affected by pollution, they are not specifically recognized as indicators of industrial pollution like lichens are.
- **Fossils**: Fossils are remnants of organisms from the past and do not serve as indicators of current pollution levels.

5. **Conclusion**: Based on the evaluation, lichens are the most appropriate choice as an industrial pollution indicator due to their sensitivity to air pollutants.

**Final Answer**: Lichens can be used as an industrial pollution indicator.

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