Q. 15 - Biology

Question

Where in a phylogenetic tree would you expect to find the organism that had evolved most recently?

a. at the base

b. within the branches

c. at the nodes

d. at the branch tips

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The organism that held evolved most recently at the branch tips.

The correct option is (d).

Step 1: Introduction

A phylogenetic tree is a diagram that depicts the evolutionary relationships between distinct biological species based on physical or genetic properties that are similar or different. Species that have recently evolved are not placed at the bottom, whereas the least evolved or most primitive organisms are. Because nodes are utilised to connect branches, newly evolved creatures are not found at nodes or within branches.

Step :2 Explanation Incorrect answer (a), (b) and (c)

A diagram which shows the evolutionary relationships between various biological species on the premise of similarities or differences within the physical or genetic traits is thought as a phylogenetic tree. Recently evolved organisms don't seem to be placed at the bottom whereas the smallest amount evolved or the foremost primitive organisms are placed there. Nodes are accustomed connect branches and thus, recently evolved organisms don't seem to be placed at the nodes or within the branches. 

Step 3: Explanation Correct answer (d)

The "tips" of the tree branches represent the taxa which are being studied. the foremost recently evolved organisms are placed right at the tip of a phylogenetic tree.