Why is it important for students to analyze changes in peppered moth populations?

Analyzing changes in peppered moth populations is crucial for studying the environmental impacts of pollution, particularly as it relates to natural selection and adaptation. The classic example of the peppered moth illustrates how industrial pollution led to changes in the moths' coloration due to soot-covered trees, which increased predation on lighter-colored moths and favored darker-colored variants. This observation helps students comprehend how environmental changes can affect survival and reproduction, leading to shifts in population dynamics and characteristics over time. Understanding this real-world application of natural selection as influenced by human activities enhances students’ ability to critically evaluate ecological and evolutionary principles in relation to environmental issues.