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Multiple Choice
Which is a correct interpretation of a cladogram?
A
The length of each branch represents the age of the organism.
B
All organisms at the tips of the cladogram are equally related to each other.
C
Cladograms show the exact time when species diverged.
D
Organisms that share a more recent common ancestor are more closely related.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the purpose of a cladogram: A cladogram is a diagram used to show evolutionary relationships among organisms based on shared derived characteristics. It does not represent the exact time of divergence or the age of organisms.
Identify the key feature of a cladogram: The branching points (nodes) represent common ancestors, and organisms that share a more recent common ancestor are more closely related.
Clarify the misconception about branch length: In a cladogram, the length of the branches does not represent the age of the organism or the exact time of divergence. It is primarily used to show relationships.
Explain the relationship among organisms at the tips: Organisms at the tips of the cladogram are not necessarily equally related to each other. Their relationship depends on how recently they share a common ancestor.
Conclude with the correct interpretation: The correct interpretation of a cladogram is that organisms sharing a more recent common ancestor are more closely related to each other than those that diverged earlier.