Question:

Before industrialization in Great Britain, which insects had a higher population?

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Before industrialisation the tree trunks were light in colour. This favoured the light-coloured moth.
Updated On: Nov 12, 2026
  • Biston betularia
  • Aphid crocci
  • Cactoblastis cactorum
  • Biston carbonaria
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Concept
The peppered moth shows natural selection. It has a light form, Biston betularia, and a dark form, Biston carbonaria.

Step 2: Before industrialisation
Tree trunks were pale because of lichens. The light moths blended in and escaped bird predation, while the dark moths were easily seen and eaten.

Step 3: Conclusion
So the light form Biston betularia was more numerous.

Final Answer:
Biston betularia had the higher population before industrialisation. \[ \boxed{\text{(A) }\text{Biston betularia}} \]
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