In a natural selection activity using a 3D tree stump with moths, what concept is demonstrated?

In a natural selection activity using a 3D tree stump with moths, what concept is demonstrated?

• A. It demonstrates natural selection by selecting moth colors.
• B. It shows that moths can adapt by learning new behaviors.
• C. It illustrates that tree stump color has no effect on moths.
• D. It teaches the acquired vs. inherited characteristics of the moths.

Answer: (C)

The main idea here is natural selection through camouflage. In the 3D tree-stump setup, moths whose coloration matches the bark are less visible to predators, so they’re more likely to survive and reproduce. Over generations, the population shifts toward colors that blend in, showing how inherited variation leads to differential survival based on how well traits fit the environment. This isn’t about learning new behaviors or acquiring traits during a lifetime—the coloration is inherited, and predation pressure on that trait drives the change. The idea that stump color has no effect is inconsistent with how camouflage affects visibility and survival.

The main idea here is natural selection through camouflage. In the 3D tree-stump setup, moths whose coloration matches the bark are less visible to predators, so they’re more likely to survive and reproduce. Over generations, the population shifts toward colors that blend in, showing how inherited variation leads to differential survival based on how well traits fit the environment. This isn’t about learning new behaviors or acquiring traits during a lifetime—the coloration is inherited, and predation pressure on that trait drives the change. The idea that stump color has no effect is inconsistent with how camouflage affects visibility and survival.