Cladograms Flashcard

Front

What is a cladogram?

Back

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

Front

What trait is represented at point A in a cladogram?

Back

The trait at point A can vary depending on the specific cladogram, but in the provided example, it is 'eyes'.

Front

What distinguishes zebras from giraffes in a cladogram context?

Back

Zebras are distinguished from giraffes by having an even number of toes.

Front

Which organisms are more closely related: lizard and salamander or lizard and mouse?

Back

Lizard and salamander are more closely related.

Front

What is a common ancestor in a cladogram?

Back

A common ancestor is the most recent species from which two or more different species have evolved.

Front

How can you distinguish between arachnids and insects?

Back

Arachnids can be distinguished from insects by the presence of antennae; insects have antennae while arachnids do not.

Front

What is the significance of traits in a cladogram?

Back

Traits are used to determine the evolutionary relationships and branching patterns in a cladogram.

Front

What does a branch point in a cladogram represent?

Back

A branch point represents a common ancestor from which two or more descendant species diverged.

Front

What is the role of characteristics in constructing a cladogram?

Back

Characteristics help to identify relationships and differences among species, guiding the construction of the cladogram.

Front

What is the difference between homologous and analogous traits?

Back

Homologous traits are similar due to shared ancestry, while analogous traits are similar due to convergent evolution, not shared ancestry.