Cladogram and Phylogenetic Tree Flashcard

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What is a cladogram?

Back

A cladogram is a diagram that shows the evolutionary relationships among a group of organisms, illustrating how they are related through common ancestors.

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What is a phylogenetic tree?

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A phylogenetic tree is a branching diagram that represents the evolutionary history of a group of organisms, showing how species are related through evolution.

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What does the term 'last common ancestor' mean?

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The last common ancestor refers to the most recent individual from which all organisms in a group are directly descended.

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How can you determine which organism is least related to others in a cladogram?

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The organism that branches off first in a cladogram is typically the least related to the others, as it shares fewer common ancestors.

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What are derived characters in a cladogram?

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Derived characters are traits that are present in a group of organisms but were absent in their last common ancestor.

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What is the significance of the position of organisms in a cladogram?

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The position of organisms in a cladogram indicates their evolutionary relationships and how closely related they are to one another.

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What is the difference between ancestral and derived traits?

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Ancestral traits are characteristics that were present in the last common ancestor of a group, while derived traits are those that evolved later in the lineage.

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What are theropods?

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Theropods are a group of bipedal dinosaurs that are characterized by hollow bones and three-toed limbs, which include modern birds.

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Why do some organisms have light bones?

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Light bones are often an adaptation for flight, as seen in birds, allowing for reduced weight and increased mobility.

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What does it mean for a character to be 'not derived'?

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A character that is 'not derived' is one that is considered an ancestral trait, meaning it was present in the last common ancestor of the group.