Question Detail

ZOO 102 Animal Diversity, Phylogeny, and Vertebrate Structure Objective Question
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Question

In a phylogenetic tree, what does each node specifically represent?
Options
A A single species extinction event
B The end of an evolutionary lineage
C A common ancestor and point of divergence
Correct Answer
D A shared derived physical trait
Correct Answer

Option C is the correct answer.

Detailed Explanation

Nodes on a phylogenetic tree represent common ancestors and points where evolutionary lineages diverge. While derived traits (synapomorphies) characterize branches, the node itself is the ancestral point.

Hint

Think about the intersection point where branches split.

Question Info

Course: ZOO 102
Topic: Animal Diversity, Phylogeny, and Vertebrate Structure
Type: Objective
Difficulty: Not specified
Question 63 of 737
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