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Multiple Choice
According to the phylogenetic tree, which two phyla are most closely related?
A
Cnidaria and Echinodermata
B
Porifera and Nematoda
C
Arthropoda and Annelida
D
Mollusca and Chordata
Verified step by step guidance
1
Examine the phylogenetic tree provided in the problem. A phylogenetic tree is a diagram that represents evolutionary relationships among organisms or groups of organisms based on shared traits or genetic similarities.
Identify the phyla listed in the problem: Cnidaria, Echinodermata, Porifera, Nematoda, Arthropoda, Annelida, Mollusca, and Chordata. Locate each of these phyla on the phylogenetic tree.
Look for the branching points (nodes) on the tree. These nodes indicate common ancestors and evolutionary relationships. The closer two phyla are on the tree, the more closely related they are.
Compare the relative positions of the phyla pairs mentioned in the problem: Cnidaria and Echinodermata, Porifera and Nematoda, Arthropoda and Annelida, Mollusca and Chordata. Determine which pair shares the most recent common ancestor based on their proximity on the tree.
Conclude that the correct answer is Arthropoda and Annelida, as they are the most closely related pair according to the phylogenetic tree. This relationship is supported by their shared evolutionary traits, such as segmentation and similar developmental patterns.