Phylogenetic Tree Review

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What is a phylogenetic tree?

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

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What does a common ancestor represent in a phylogenetic tree?

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A species from which two or more different species have evolved.

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How can you determine the closest relative of an organism on a phylogenetic tree?

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By looking at the branches that are nearest to the organism in question; the closest relative shares a more recent common ancestor.

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What does it mean if two species share a common ancestor?

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It indicates that they have diverged from a shared lineage and may have similar traits due to their evolutionary history.

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What is the significance of points on a phylogenetic tree?

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Points represent common ancestors where species diverged from one another.

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What type of information can be inferred from a phylogenetic tree?

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It can show evolutionary relationships, the relative timing of species divergence, and shared characteristics among species.

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What is the role of DNA in determining evolutionary relationships?

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DNA analysis can reveal genetic similarities and differences, helping to establish how closely related different species are.

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What does it mean if a species has a high percentage of DNA similarity with another species?

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It suggests that the two species share a more recent common ancestor and are closely related.

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What is the oldest layer in a phylogenetic tree?

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The oldest layer represents the earliest common ancestor of the species depicted in the tree.

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How do you identify inherited features in a phylogenetic tree?

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Inherited features are traits that are present in all organisms on a particular branch of the tree.