Multiple Choice
In a phylogenetic tree, how is the passage of time typically represented?
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25. Phylogeny
Introduction to Phylogeny
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In a phylogenetic tree, which branch point represents the most recent common ancestor of all species depicted in the tree?
A
The tip of the longest branch
B
The midpoint of the tree
C
The root of the tree
D
Any internal node
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that a phylogenetic tree is a diagram that represents evolutionary relationships among various biological species based on similarities and differences in their physical or genetic characteristics.
Identify the structure of a phylogenetic tree, which includes branches, nodes, and the root. The branches represent evolutionary lineages, nodes represent common ancestors, and the root is the most ancestral node of the tree.
Recognize that the root of the tree is the starting point from which all other branches diverge. It represents the most recent common ancestor of all species depicted in the tree.
Differentiate between the root and other nodes in the tree. While any internal node can represent a common ancestor of a subset of species, the root is unique in that it is the common ancestor of all species in the tree.
Conclude that the branch point representing the most recent common ancestor of all species in the phylogenetic tree is the root of the tree, as it is the point from which all evolutionary paths originate.
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