About
Biston betularia, commonly known as the Peppered Moth, is a moth species found throughout much of the Northern Hemisphere. It has a wingspan of about 2.5 inches and is known for its distinctive peppered or speckled appearance, with a mix of white, gray, and black scales covering its wings.
One interesting fact about the Peppered Moth is its association with industrialization and pollution. Prior to 1848, the species mainly existed as a white morph, but after the industrial revolution distributed soot and coal particles throughout the environment, scientists found that the black morph outnumbered the white morph. This is an example of natural selection, as the black morphs could camouflage easier in the face of pollution. This phenomenon is known as industrial melanism, and it occurs when a species develops a dark morphism in response to environmental pollution. The black morphs of the Peppered Moth became more prevalent in areas of high pollution and industrialization.
Despite its name, the Peppered Moth is not actually related to pepper, but rather to the family of Geometridae, which are commonly known as the “inchworm” or “geometer” moths. The species can often be found resting on tree trunks or branches during the day, where its mottled appearance allows it to blend in with the bark and avoid detection by predators.
The peppered moth is a highly adaptable species that can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, hedgerows, urban environments, and even suburban gardens. It is commonly found in the United Kingdom and other parts of Europe, as well as in North America. The larvae of the peppered moth feed on a variety of trees, including birch, willow, and oak.
