How can natural selection be modeled?

The background paper represents the environment, and the dots represent a population of organisms.

With the help of tweezers or a pin, students must "catch" the dots within the allotted time limit, transforming into predators.

An 8 x 11 sheet of paper has a set of dots (about 100; you can make the dots with a paper punch) on it; one set of dots is the same color as the background sheet, and the other set is colored in contrast.

Natural selection suggests that the dots of the contrasting color will be "selected" by the student predators more frequently than the dots of the same color, meaning that the dots that match the background will survive to reproduce. The students are instructed to "catch" as many dots as they can in the allotted time. The number of dots of each color is then counted.

Use extremely thin pieces of paper (note: you can locate the dot and determine its color by measuring its thickness).

This is a simple, low-cost experiment that works well with the way the English peppered moths are presented in textbooks.

Natural selection can be modeled using mathematical equations, computer simulations, and experimental studies. One common modeling approach is through population genetics, where mathematical formulas are used to represent the frequencies of different alleles in a population over time. Computer simulations, such as agent-based models or evolutionary algorithms, can also simulate the processes of mutation, selection, and reproduction within populations. Additionally, experimental studies, both in the laboratory and in natural environments, can provide insights into how natural selection operates on specific traits within populations. Overall, modeling natural selection involves integrating genetic principles with ecological factors to understand how evolutionary processes shape the diversity of life on Earth.