In: Biology
Can you think of an example where molecular data would be better for inferring evolutionary relationships? Can you think of an example where morphological data would be better for inferring evolutionary relationships?
1. Molecular data: This type of data is very essential for today's evolutionary relationships are inferred to understand. Its advantages are • DNA is the inherited material; • We can now reliably sequence genetic material; • Sequences are rich in information and highly specific.
Example: The relationship and the evolution of human beings.
Fig: This tree is based upon the DNA and protein sequence data.
Another example of using the nucleic acid sequence data is given below.
2. Morphological data: In some cases where the are fewer chances to get the DNA based data, scientists and experts rely on the morphological measurements. Phylogenetic trees can be used using the data from the morphological, physiological, or behavioral characters.
Example: Here is an oldest example, with the Darwin's finches.