Phylogenetic Trees Lessons

​Concept 4:
Classification & Phylogeny

Multiple Choice

According to the cladogram, which of the following is NOT a derived characteristic?

• light bones

• Allosaurus

• down feathers

• 3-toed foot; wishbone

Multiple Choice

According to this phylogenetic tree, which creature is the least related out of all pictured?

• Fish

• Frog

• Salamander

• Human

Multiple Choice

16. The phylogenetic tree illustrates the relationship between humans and our closest living relatives. The tree was based on biochemical comparisons, including DNA and amino acid sequences. What statement COULD we make about the four species based on the phylogenetic tree?

• a. The orangutan has nothing in common with the other three organisms.

• b. The four have molecular similarities, but have their own unique traits.

• c. The is no evidence of any connection between the four organisms.

• d. Humans are in no way similar to the other three organisms.

Multiple Choice

22. According to the diagram, which two organisms are most closely related?

• a. frog and human

• b. bird and human

• c. dinosaur and human

• d. whale and human

Multiple Choice

28. Analyze the figure below. Which organism diverged first?

• d. shark

• a. human

• b. crocodile

• c. bird

• e. tuna

Multiple Choice

30. Analyze the figure below. Identify the organism most closely related to birds that are not extinct.

• b. crocodile

• a. human

• c. bird

• d. shark

• e. saurischians

Multiple Choice

Which two groups of organisms have the MOST genetic DIFFERENCES?

• rotifers and nematodes

• mollusks and annelids

• mollusks and arthropods

• echinoderms and chordates

Multiple Choice

The diagram shows a cladogram of six species based on amino acid similarities. Which two species are MOST CLOSELY related.

• I and II

• II and IV

• I and V

• V and VI