Question
15. 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 _ Previous
Ask by Brooks Henry. in the United States
Feb 03,2025
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Answer
The most recently evolved organism is found at the branch tips of the phylogenetic tree.
Solution
The correct answer is:
**d. at the branch tips**
### Explanation:
In a phylogenetic tree, **branch tips** (also known as **terminal branches**) represent the existing species or the most recently evolved lineages. Here's a brief overview of the components of a phylogenetic tree to clarify:
- **Base**: This is the root of the tree and represents the common ancestor from which all the organisms in the tree have descended.
- **Nodes**: These points on the tree indicate common ancestors from which two or more lineages have diverged.
- **Branches**: These lines connect nodes and show the evolutionary path from one ancestor to another.
- **Branch Tips**: Located at the ends of the branches, these represent the current species or the most recently evolved organisms in the tree.
Therefore, the organism that has evolved most recently would be found at the **tips of the branches**.
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Simplify this solution Extra Insights
You would expect to find the organism that has evolved most recently at the branch tips of a phylogenetic tree. These tips represent the current species or taxa in their most evolved forms, showcasing the culmination of millions of years of evolutionary changes. Phylogenetic trees can be a bit like family trees but for species! Each branch shows how different organisms are related through a common ancestor, and the tips tell us which species are around today. So next time you look at one, think of it as a timeline showing the connections and divergence of life over time!
