Biston betularia
Biston betularia, commonly known as the peppered moth, is a species of moth found primarily in Europe and North America. It is known for its distinct coloration, which varies from light to dark, allowing it to blend into its environment. This camouflage helps protect it from predators, such as birds.
The peppered moth is often studied in the context of natural selection and evolution. During the Industrial Revolution, darker moths became more common due to pollution darkening tree bark, which provided better camouflage against predators. This phenomenon is a classic example of how environmental changes can influence species adaptation.