Question

a population of moths lives in a forested area where they spend daylight hours resting on tree trunks. the moths range in color from light gray to dark gray. which of the following best describes a biotic factor that could lead to adaptation by natural selection in the moth population? choose 1 answer: a increased average temperatures, which can limit a moth’s activity levels b birds preying on moths that are visible on certain tree trunks c pollution that causes tree trunks to become darker in color

Explanation:

To solve this, we first recall that biotic factors are living or once - living components of an ecosystem. Option A (increased average temperatures) and Option C (pollution causing tree trunks to darken) are abiotic (non - living) factors. Option B involves birds (a living organism) preying on moths. This predation will lead to natural selection: moths that are less visible on tree trunks (due to their color matching the trunk) will be more likely to survive and reproduce, leading to adaptation in the moth population.

Answer:

B. birds preying on moths that are visible on certain tree trunks