Phylogenetic Tree Review

Front

What is a phylogenetic tree?

Back

A diagram that shows the evolutionary relationships among various biological species based on similarities and differences in their physical or genetic characteristics.

Front

What does 'derived characteristic' mean?

Back

A trait that is present in an organism but was absent in the last common ancestor of the group being considered.

Front

What is the significance of bipedalism in evolutionary terms?

Back

Bipedalism is a derived characteristic that indicates a significant evolutionary adaptation, allowing species to walk on two legs.

Front

Which animal phyla are most closely related according to phylogenetic trees?

Back

Phylogenetic trees help identify relationships, such as Arthropoda and Mollusca being closely related.

Front

What does it mean if a species is the least related to others on a phylogenetic tree?

Back

It indicates that the species shares a more distant common ancestor with the other species depicted.

Front

How do phylogenetic trees help in understanding evolution?

Back

They visualize the evolutionary pathways and relationships among species, showing how they diverged from common ancestors.

Front

What is a common ancestor?

Back

An ancestral species from which two or more species have evolved.

Front

What role do vertebrae play in the classification of animals?

Back

Vertebrae are a key characteristic that helps classify animals into the phylum Chordata.

Front

What is the importance of hair in mammalian evolution?

Back

Hair is a derived characteristic that helps classify animals as mammals and is important for insulation and protection.

Front

What does it mean for species to develop from a blastula?

Back

It refers to the early stage of embryonic development in animals, indicating a shared developmental process among many species.