A scientist studying evolution of peppered moths (Biston betularia)in Michigan observed that the percentage of melanic moths increased by around 2% from 1960-1961.Has evolution occurred in this population?
A)No,because melanism wasn't adaptive at that time.
B)No,because the frequency of the melanic moths did not change enough to be considered evolution.
C)Yes,because the frequency of the melanic moths in the population changed over time.
D)Yes,because the frequency of melanic moths decreased.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Evolution is defined as a change in the frequency of alleles in a population over time. In this case, the percentage of melanic moths increased by 2% from 1960-1961, indicating a change in the frequency of the melanic allele in the population. Therefore, evolution has occurred in this population. Choice A is incorrect because it assumes that evolution only occurs in response to adaptiveness. Choice B is incorrect because even a small change in frequency can be considered evolution. Choice D is incorrect because the frequency of melanic moths increased, not decreased.

A Scientist Studying Evolution of Peppered Moths (Biston Betularia)in Michigan