In the post-industrialization period in England

Options

A. Melanised moths were more in number than white winged moths
B. White-winged moths were more in number than melanised moths
C. Both had an equal number
D. Both became extinct.

Answer

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

1. **Understanding the Context:**
- The question pertains to the changes in moth populations in England during the post-industrialization period. This is a classic example of natural selection.

2. **Pre-Industrialization Scenario:**
- In the 1850s, before industrialization, the environment had white lichens growing on trees.
- The white-winged moths were more numerous because they blended in with the white lichen, providing them with camouflage from predators.
- Conversely, melanized (dark-winged) moths were more visible to predators and thus were hunted more frequently.

3. **Post-Industrialization Changes:**
- By the 1920s, industrialization led to increased air pollution, resulting in smoke and soot that darkened the environment.
- The white lichen began to die off due to pollution, and the bark of the trees turned dark as well.
- As a result, the camouflage that benefited the white-winged moths was lost, making them more visible to predators.

4. **Impact on Moth Populations:**
- The melanized moths, now blending in with the darkened trees, were less visible to predators and thus had a survival advantage.
- Consequently, the population of melanized moths increased significantly, while the population of white-winged moths decreased.

5. **Conclusion:**
- Based on the evidence and observations from both periods, the correct answer to the question is that "Melanized moths were more in number than white-winged moths" in the post-industrialization period.

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