Peppered Moth vs Australian Scorpionfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Peppered Moth | Australian Scorpionfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Biston betularia | Harpobittacus australis |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Mecoptera |
| Family | Geometridae | Bittacidae |
| Size | 45-62 mm wingspan | 18-22 mm |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Woodlands |
| Diet | Herbivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | Europe, Asia, North America | Oceania |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Peppered Moth
The classic textbook example of natural selection in action. During the Industrial Revolution, dark (melanic) forms became dominant in polluted areas with soot-darkened trees.
Did You Know?
The peppered moth is the most famous example of observed evolution — dark moths increased from 2% to 95% of the population during Britains Industrial Revolution.
Australian Scorpionfly
An Australian hangingfly that suspends itself from vegetation and catches prey with its raptorial hind legs. Males present captured prey to females as nuptial gifts.
Did You Know?
Female Australian scorpionflies assess nuptial gifts by tasting the prey — if it is nutritionally poor, they reject the male and fly away.