Peppered Moth Dark Form vs Small-eyed Sphinx Moth
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Peppered Moth Dark Form | Small-eyed Sphinx Moth |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Biston betularia f. carbonaria | Paonias myops |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Geometridae | Sphingidae |
| Size | 42-52 mm wingspan | 45-65 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Underground | Orchards |
| Diet | Herbivores | Omnivores |
| Regions | Europe | Eastern North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Peppered Moth Dark Form
The dark melanic form of the famous peppered moth, a textbook example of natural selection. Became dominant during industrial pollution when soot darkened tree bark.
Did You Know?
The rise and fall of the dark form tracks industrial pollution so closely it remains the best example of evolution in action.
Small-eyed Sphinx Moth
A pinkish-brown sphinx moth whose hindwings bear a small blue eyespot ringed in black and yellow. It relies on camouflage at rest but flashes the eyespot when threatened.
Did You Know?
The species name 'myops' means 'short-sighted,' a reference to its notably small hindwing eyespot.