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Multiple Choice
Select the correct statement about phylogenetic trees.
A
All branches in a phylogenetic tree represent living species only.
B
Phylogenetic trees always show the exact time when species diverged.
C
The length of every branch in a phylogenetic tree always indicates the number of genes shared.
D
Phylogenetic trees illustrate the evolutionary relationships among species based on shared ancestry.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the purpose of phylogenetic trees: Phylogenetic trees are diagrams that represent evolutionary relationships among species based on shared ancestry. They are constructed using data such as morphological traits, genetic sequences, or other biological characteristics.
Clarify the misconception about branches: Not all branches in a phylogenetic tree represent living species. Some branches may represent extinct species or ancestral species that are no longer alive.
Address the misconception about divergence timing: Phylogenetic trees do not always show the exact time when species diverged. While some trees may include time scales, others focus solely on the relationships and do not provide precise temporal information.
Explain the meaning of branch length: The length of branches in a phylogenetic tree does not always indicate the number of genes shared. In some trees, branch length may represent genetic differences, evolutionary time, or other metrics, but this is not universally true for all phylogenetic trees.
Conclude with the correct statement: Phylogenetic trees are tools used to illustrate evolutionary relationships among species based on shared ancestry, helping scientists understand how species are related and how they have evolved over time.