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Postindustrial melanism in the peppered moth.

L M Cook, G S Mani, M E Varley

    Science (New York, N.Y.)
    |February 7, 1986
    PubMed
    Summary

    The melanic morph carbonaria of the peppered moth (Biston betularia) has significantly decreased in frequency following two decades of pollution control. This suggests a notable disadvantage for the melanic form in current environmental conditions.

    Area of Science:

    • Evolutionary Biology
    • Ecology
    • Population Genetics

    Background:

    • The peppered moth (Biston betularia) exhibits a melanic morph (carbonaria) whose frequency is influenced by environmental factors.
    • Previous studies documented shifts in melanic moth frequencies correlating with industrial pollution levels.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To assess the current geographical distribution and frequency of the melanic morph carbonaria of Biston betularia.
    • To compare contemporary frequencies with historical data spanning over two decades.
    • To evaluate the impact of environmental changes, specifically smoke control, on melanic moth frequencies.

    Main Methods:

    • Geographical surveys of melanic morph frequencies in Biston betularia populations during 1983-84.
    • Comparative analysis of new frequency data with historical data from 1952-1970.

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  • Computer simulations modeling population dynamics, excluding heterozygote advantage, to match observed frequency patterns.

    • Main Results:

    • A significant contraction in the area of high melanic frequency (carbonaria) was observed, shifting northeastward after 20 years of smoke control.
    • The melanic morph carbonaria shows an approximate 12 percent disadvantage compared to 20 years prior.
    • Computer simulations accurately replicated both historical (1952-1970) and contemporary (1983-84) melanic frequency patterns.

    Conclusions:

    • Environmental changes, particularly reduced industrial pollution, have led to a decreased frequency of the melanic morph in Biston betularia.
    • The study supports the role of visual predation in driving selection pressures on moth coloration.
    • Simulations demonstrate the effectiveness of modeling population dynamics with predation data, even without assuming heterozygote advantage.