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Multiple Choice
Which type of evidence is most commonly used to construct modern phylogenetic trees?
A
Behavioral similarities
B
Geographic distribution of species
C
DNA and molecular sequence data
D
Fossilized footprints
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the purpose of phylogenetic trees: Phylogenetic trees are diagrams that represent evolutionary relationships among species or groups based on shared traits or ancestry.
Recognize the types of evidence that can be used to construct phylogenetic trees: These include behavioral similarities, geographic distribution, fossil evidence, and molecular data such as DNA sequences.
Learn why molecular sequence data is most commonly used: DNA and molecular sequence data provide precise and quantifiable information about genetic similarities and differences between species, allowing scientists to infer evolutionary relationships with high accuracy.
Compare molecular data to other types of evidence: Behavioral similarities and geographic distribution can provide clues about relationships, but they are often less reliable because they can be influenced by environmental factors or convergent evolution. Fossil evidence is valuable but may be incomplete or difficult to interpret.
Conclude that modern phylogenetic trees rely heavily on DNA and molecular sequence data because it provides the most direct and detailed evidence of evolutionary relationships at the genetic level.