In an evolutionary tree, what can two branches being close to each other indicate?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: They may have a relatively recent common ancestor
The governing concept is the interpretation of an evolutionary or phylogenetic tree. Branching patterns represent relationships among organisms, and two branches that join near one another generally indicate that those organisms share a more recent common ancestor than organisms whose branches diverged earlier. They are not necessarily the same organism, and the tree does not imply absence of genes or that they never lived. Thus option A is correct.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
They may have a relatively recent common ancestor
Why is this the correct answer?
The governing concept is the interpretation of an evolutionary or phylogenetic tree. Branching patterns represent relationships among organisms, and two branches that join near one another generally indicate that those organisms share a more recent common ancestor than organisms whose branches diverged earlier. They are not necessarily the same organism, and the tree does not imply absence of genes or that they never lived. Thus option A is correct.
Which subject and chapter does this question cover?
This is a Class 9 Science question. Chapter: Patterns in Life: Diversity and Classification. Topic: Evolutionary relationships.
