When the human genome is examined, the chromosomes appear to have undergone only minimal rearrangement in the 100 million years since the last common ancestor of eutherian mammals. However, when individual humans are examined or when the human genome is compared with that of chimpanzees, a large number of small indels and SNPs can be detected. How are these observations reconciled?
Table of contents
- 1. Introduction to Genetics51m
- 2. Mendel's Laws of Inheritance3h 37m
- 3. Extensions to Mendelian Inheritance2h 41m
- 4. Genetic Mapping and Linkage2h 28m
- 5. Genetics of Bacteria and Viruses1h 21m
- 6. Chromosomal Variation1h 48m
- 7. DNA and Chromosome Structure56m
- 8. DNA Replication1h 10m
- 9. Mitosis and Meiosis1h 34m
- 10. Transcription1h 0m
- 11. Translation58m
- 12. Gene Regulation in Prokaryotes1h 19m
- 13. Gene Regulation in Eukaryotes44m
- 14. Genetic Control of Development44m
- 15. Genomes and Genomics1h 50m
- 16. Transposable Elements47m
- 17. Mutation, Repair, and Recombination1h 6m
- 18. Molecular Genetic Tools19m
- 19. Cancer Genetics29m
- 20. Quantitative Genetics1h 26m
- 21. Population Genetics50m
- 22. Evolutionary Genetics29m
22. Evolutionary Genetics
Phylogenetic Trees
Problem 22c
Textbook Question
Examine the following figure and answer the following questions.

What characteristics are shared by the mammalian clade and the primate clade? What characteristic distinguishes the primates from other members of the mammalian clade?

1
Examine Figure 1.17 to identify the shared characteristics of the mammalian clade. Mammals typically share traits such as the presence of mammary glands, hair or fur, and endothermy (warm-bloodedness).
Next, identify the shared characteristics of the primate clade. Primates generally share traits such as forward-facing eyes, a large brain relative to body size, and grasping hands with opposable thumbs.
Compare the traits of the mammalian clade and the primate clade to determine which characteristics are shared by both groups. These shared traits will represent the common features of primates as mammals.
Identify the distinguishing characteristic(s) of primates that set them apart from other mammals. Look for unique traits in the primate clade that are not present in the broader mammalian clade.
Summarize your findings by listing the shared characteristics of the mammalian and primate clades, as well as the unique characteristic(s) that distinguish primates from other mammals.

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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Mammalian Clade Characteristics
The mammalian clade is characterized by features such as warm-bloodedness, hair or fur, and mammary glands that produce milk for offspring. These traits are essential for the survival and nurturing of young mammals, allowing them to thrive in various environments. Understanding these characteristics helps in identifying the broader traits shared among all mammals.
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Primate Clade Characteristics
Primates, a subgroup within the mammalian clade, exhibit unique characteristics such as flexible limb structure, enhanced vision, and larger brain-to-body size ratios. These adaptations facilitate complex behaviors and social structures. Recognizing these traits is crucial for distinguishing primates from other mammals and understanding their evolutionary significance.
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Evolutionary Distinction
The evolutionary distinction between primates and other mammals often centers on traits like opposable thumbs and advanced cognitive abilities. These features enable primates to manipulate objects and engage in problem-solving, setting them apart from other mammalian groups. This distinction is vital for understanding the evolutionary pathways that led to the diverse behaviors and adaptations seen in primates today.
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