phylogenetic trees

Front

What is a phylogenetic tree?

Back

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

Front

What do the branch lengths in a phylogenetic tree represent?

Back

The amount of genetic change that has occurred since the divergence of the species.

Front

Which two domains of life are most closely related according to phylogenetic trees?

Back

Archaea and Eukarya.

Front

What is a common ancestor in the context of a phylogenetic tree?

Back

The most recent species from which two or more species have evolved.

Front

What is the significance of the root of a phylogenetic tree?

Back

It represents the most recent common ancestor of all the organisms in the tree.

Front

What does the term 'divergence' mean in phylogenetics?

Back

The process by which two or more related species become more dissimilar over time.

Front

What is the difference between homologous and analogous traits?

Back

Homologous traits are inherited from a common ancestor, while analogous traits arise independently due to similar environmental pressures.

Front

What is the purpose of constructing a phylogenetic tree?

Back

To visualize and understand the evolutionary relationships and history of different species.

Front

What is a clade in a phylogenetic tree?

Back

A group of organisms that includes an ancestor and all its descendants.

Front

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

Back

It indicates that they are closely related and have diverged from a common lineage.