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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is most likely to be the outgroup in a cladogram comparing mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians?
A
Mammals
B
Reptiles
C
Birds
D
Amphibians
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of an outgroup: In a cladogram, the outgroup is a species or group that is less closely related to the other groups being compared. It serves as a reference point for determining evolutionary relationships.
Identify the groups being compared: The groups in this problem are mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. These groups represent major classes of vertebrates.
Determine the evolutionary relationships: Amphibians are considered more primitive compared to mammals, birds, and reptiles. They were among the first vertebrates to transition from water to land, and their evolutionary lineage diverged earlier than the other groups.
Recognize the shared characteristics: Mammals, birds, and reptiles share more derived traits (e.g., amniotic eggs) compared to amphibians, which lack these traits. This makes amphibians the most likely outgroup.
Conclude that amphibians are the outgroup: Based on their earlier divergence and lack of shared derived traits with the other groups, amphibians are the most appropriate outgroup in this cladogram.