Phylogenetic Trees

Front

What is a Phylogenetic Tree?

Back

A branching diagram showing relationships between organisms that are connected by a common ancestor.

Front

What is a Cladogram?

Back

A specific type of tree that includes traits of species on the tree.

Front

What is an adaptation?

Back

An inheritable characteristic that gives a survival advantage to the organism.

Front

Which trait was developed most recently: tetrapod limbs, feathers, or amnion?

Back

Feathers.

Front

Which organism is least related in a phylogenetic tree: Fish, Frog, Salamander, or Human?

Back

Fish.

Front

What does 'derived character' mean in the context of phylogenetics?

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 speciation?

Back

The process by which new and distinct species evolve from existing species.

Front

What is the significance of fossil records in phylogenetics?

Back

Fossil records provide evidence of the evolutionary history and relationships between species.

Front

What is a common ancestor?

Back

An ancestor that two or more descendant species have in common.

Front

What is the purpose of a phylogenetic tree?

Back

To illustrate the evolutionary relationships and lineage of different species.